CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, LA UNION

STATE OF THE CHILDREN ADDRESS 2021

LOCAL STATE OF THE CHILDREN REPORT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Executive Summary

II. INTRODUCTION
a. Demographic
b. Economic
c. Social
d. Cultural

III. GENERAL MEASURES OF IMPLEMENTATION

a. Progress of implementation of Local Development Plan for Children (LDPC)
b. Info on budgetary allocations for children
c. Local mechanisms for child rights promotion
d. Measures taken to make the principles and provision of Convention of Children’s Rights
(CRC) widely known
e. Cooperation with Non-Government Organization (NGOs), Faith Based Organization (FBO),
civil society organizations in advancing children’s rights

IV. GENERAL PRINCIPLES

a. Non-Discrimination (Equality)
b. Best Interests of the Child
c. Right to Life, Survival and Development
d. Respect for the view of a child

V. CIVIL RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS

a. Relevant info on measures
b. Birth registration, name and identity
c. Access to appropriate information
d. Freedom of expression, freedom of association and assembly
e. Protection of privacy
f. Corporal punishment
g. Right not to be subjected to torture and other cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment or
punishment

VI. FAMILY ENVIRONMENT AND ALTERNATIVE CARE

a. How ‘Best Interest of the Child’ and ‘Respect for the views of the Child’ are reflected in
addressing issues
b. Parental guidance and parental responsibilities
c. Separation from parents
d. Children deprived of parental care or at risk of losing parental care
e. Abuse, neglect, abandonment, mistreatment and violence, foster care, adoption and other
forms of alternative parental care
VII. BASIC HEALTH AND WELFARE
a. Health and health services
b. Environmental health
c. HIV/AIDS
d. Children with disabilities
e. Social security
f. Childcare services and facilities
g. Standard of living

VIII. EDUCATION, LEISURE AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

a. Education, including vocational training and guidance
b. Quality of education
c. Leisure, recreation, and cultural/artistic activities
d. Info on any group of children who do not enjoy the right to education and the reason why
they are out of school as well as measure to provide alternative education

IX. SPECIAL PROTECTION MEASURES

a. Measures taken to protect the children
b. Children in situations of emergency including children affected by armed conflict and
children victims of natural disasters
c. Children in conflict with the law focusing on children deprived of their liberty
d. Administration of juvenile justice
e. Sentencing of juveniles particularly the prohibition of capital punishment
f. Children in situations of exploitation, such as child labor, commercial sexual exploitation,
trafficking, drug abuse and other forms of exploitation

X. MOVING FORWARD
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Children have been profoundly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The public health crisis has had a
critical impact on their mental well-being, social development, safety, privacy, and economic security.
The effects of the infections brought on by the rapid COVID-19 transmission itself are already devastating.
Add to that the socio-economic impact of the pandemic which include parents losing jobs. The delay in
the implementation of sustainable development particularly in the delivery of virtual learning among the
younger generation belonging to the poorest families is also critical. These factors are most damaging
to children thus, affecting their holistic development and potential contribution to nation-building.

This year’s celebration of the 28th National Children’s Month with the theme, “New Normal na Walang
Iwanan: Karapatan ng Bawat Bata Ating Tutukan!” serves as an opportune time to promote the
protection of all children and their rights, to provide practical support to parents and caregivers, and
most importantly, to empower the children in their important role in community development amidst
the pandemic.

The State of the Children in the City of San Fernando, La Union continues to be at the heart of the
City’s vision to become a People’s City. The City’s Programs, Projects, and Activities (PPAs) for children,
as seen in its annual planning and budgeting, are indicative of the focus on the protection and
development of the children of the City. The wide range of programs for children being implemented
by the City covers the entire extent of the promotion and application of the Rights of Children.

With the evolution of the current New Normal landscape, the City has welcomed a number of stakeholder
partners dedicated to ensuring that children are provided the best possible opportunities and environment
to realize their fullest potential and that their voices, hopes, and dreams are not only heard but are
truly listened to and acted upon despite the community quarantine restrictions. Programs to address the
challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic have been implemented, especially initiatives to
augment the educational needs of children during the quarantine.

Responsive solutions are also being developed and applied which is reflective of the City’s current battle
cry San Fernando Tayo: the City belongs to everyone; the City’s strength lies in the people; and the City
will rise amidst the pandemic towards recovery and development. It strengthens its three major pillars
namely: Health, Education and Economy. As part of this strategic theme, the City has positioned itself to
create a Child-Friendly City where innovation, information, and technology can best be used to better
the lives of the children of the City despite the restricted activities of children during the pandemic.

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INTRODUCTION

The City of San Fernando, La Union is located 270 kilometers north of Manila through the Manila-North
Road or Mac-Arthur Highway or via the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway
(SCTEX), and Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Expressway (TPLEX) up to Rosales in La Union. The City is
the financial, industrial, and political center of the Province of La Union, as well as the administrative
and geographical center of the Ilocos Region. Its 59 barangays account for the 10,526 hectares of land
representing 7% of the province’s land area but t supports more than 15% of the provincial population.
The 59 barangays consist of 14 coastal, 32 inland, and 13 upland barangays while there are 25 urban
barangays and 34 rural barangays.

Demographic

In 2020, the City’s projected population is at 135,671 with an average growth rate of 1.67%. The coastal,
inland, and upland population are as follows: 56,541 68,002 and 11,127 respectively. The urban population
totals 97,229 while the rural population is recorded at 38,441. The male population is estimated at 67,215
and the female population at 68,455. The City has a young population. The young dependent population
(0-14) is at 40,381 and the senior dependent population (65 and older) is at 6,981. The bulk of the population
is in the working-age group (15-64) at 88,308. We have a very young population thus the development of
the younger generation will be vital to the growth and progress of the City.

Economic

Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) comprise the majority of the businesses in the city. However,
these MSMEs are affected due to containment measures brought about by the COVID-19 that resulted
in the significant increase of displaced workers. The number of newly registered businesses declined by
55.89% from 968 to 427 while business renewal dipped by 10.73% (from 6,871 in 2020 to 6,134 in 2021),
respectively due to restrictions in the economy. Nonetheless, businesses continue to survive despite the
enduring effects of the pandemic. There is a considerable increase in the number of individual working
permits issued which went up by 6.94% from 10,459 in 2020 to 11,240 in 2021.

With a significant decrease in the business registrations recorded, initiatives to further boost the local
economy are being developed by the City government, particularly in creating employment opportunities
and provision of fiscal incentives towards boosting household incomes for a better quality of life for
families, including the children.

Social

The effort is indicative of the City Government’s prioritization and focus on social equity and delivering
public service and resources equitably with the stated preferential treatment of the marginalized sectors
including women and children in this time of pandemic. With considerable job losses and closure of jobs,
take significant effect to social well-being of the people in the city. Consistent and aligned with higher
level desired results are proposed policies, programs and projects comprising the city’s rehabilitation
and recovery plan. The strategies indicated in the plan were taken from the study of the Inter-Agency
Task Force Technical Working Group for Anticipatory and Forward Planning entitled “We Recover as One
– Defining a new normal and ways forward”. The City’s vision and comprehensive development plan
indicative of this approach centers on the development and the expansion of the provision of public
services in the marginalized sectors of society particularly in health and education sector as two of
strategic focuses in this pandemic and beyond.

Cultural

The City Government of San Fernando, La Union, treasures the City’s cultural heritage which reminds its
history and the sense of “who we are”. With the San Fernando Tayo’s battle cry, the strength lies in its
people and its own as it takes pride of its people’s uniqueness and heritage, and cultural identity and
infrastructures. These cultural properties allow the city people to identify themselves with others and
deepen the sense of unity and national pride. For the year 2020, the City along with LGU Bauang, are the
first recipients of the 500,000 cash grant from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts in the
Province of La Union. A first of its kind in the Province, the City of San Fernando, through its 10 Local Cultural
Mappers were able to identify the 40 intangible, 24 movable, 25 immovable, 77 natural, 9 personalities
and 21 institutions that are essentially preserved highlighting the city’s shared local history and identity.

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GENERAL MEASURES OF IMPLEMENTATION

Progress of implementation of LDPC

City Resolution No. 19-690, ‘A Resolution Adopting The 2020-2024 Local Development Plan for Children
of the City Government of San Fernando, La Union’, was approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod on
December 10, 2019. This formalized the adoption of the Local Development Plan for Children (LDPC) for
implementation by the City Government. The issuance came about with the Local Youth Development
Council (LYDC) adopting a resolution dated May 21, 2019, approving the Comprehensive Youth Development
Plan of the City.

Priority 1 of the City’s LDPC, as detailed in the 2020-2024 Action Plan for Children, is ‘Equal Opportunities
for All Children’, and Goal 1 therein is ‘every child is valued, respected and treated fairly within their homes,
schools, and communities’. Expected outputs include 1) the City Government guarantees the rights of the
children and 2) All existing child protection laws are effectively and consistently enforced at the local level
and current gaps in legislation are addressed. As of 2020, the following related ordinances and issuances
were considered:

• An ordinance regulating the use of gadgets and social media in schools and public places,
• Organizing children’s club per barangay
• Designation/Improvement of Child-friendly spaces (recreational area) for children in every
barangay where regular PLAYTIME (local games), socio-cultural activities are being held
• Establishment/improvement and maintenance of Reading Centers in every Barangay where
regular storytelling activities and other engaging educational activities are being conducted
• Enjoin all barangays to celebrate Children’s Month and Nutrition month at their level by conducting
simple programs or activities for children
• Enjoin all elementary schools in the City to celebrate Children’s month by conducting engaging
activities for children
• Organize a Children’s choir
• Establish a child minding center for City employees
• Creation of a Child Rights Unit to coordinate and monitor all child-related programs and activities
being conducted within the City and to manage LCPC programs, projects, and activities
• Creation of a Child Protection Monitoring Team in every school to include the Principal, Social
Worker, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) President, Punong Barangay, Philippine National Police
(PNP), Student Body Organization (SBO) President, and Guidance Councilor
• Adoption of the ‘Panagkikibin’ project as community-based services for Children In Conflict with
the Law (CICL)/Children At Risk (CAR)
• Establishment and Maintenance of NASUDI Center for Women and Children
• Adoption of Child Safeguarding Protocol for the City Government and establishments located in
the City
• Adoption of child-related national laws including:
o Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino (RA 11037)
o National Mental Health Policy (RA 11036)
o Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection Act of 2015 (RA 10821)
o Children’s Safety on Motorcycles Act of 2015 (RA 10666)
o Early Years Act (EYA) (RA 10410
o Special protection of Children Against Child Abuse, exploitation and Discrimination act(RA
9231)

Priority 1 also includes Goal 2 which is that ‘Every child has an opportunity to enjoy family life, play, and
leisure’. Goal 3 of Priority 1 is that ‘Every child has access to quality essential services’. The activity for this
component is to ‘Develop an Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Plan for Day Care Centers’
in the 4th quarter of 2019 and 1st quarter of 2020.

Priority 2 of the LDPC is ‘Participation for All Children’ with the Goal being ‘The voice, needs and priorities
of every child are heard and taken into account in public laws, policies and decisions that affect them.

Priority 3 is a ‘Violence free, safe and clean City for all Children’ with Goal 1 being ‘Every child lives in a
safe and secure home and environment’. Goal 1 activities therein that have been implemented include
the conduct of regular Parent Effectiveness Service (PES) and Family Development Sessions (FDS). Goal
2 is ‘Child-Friendly Justice for Children’ and Goal 3 is that ‘Children enjoy their rights in the digital world’.

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Goal 4 is ‘Inclusive and resilient communities for all children’. Goal 5 is that ‘Children are active partners
in taking care of the environment’. Goal 6 is that ‘Children are protected from traffic incidents’. The
implementation of the LDPC is slated to run from 2020 to 2024 and the City has PPAs in place to meet
all objectives and activities therein as will be seen in the various accomplishments in the City’s children’s
rights efforts.

Our children’s right to survival, development, and protection are mainstreamed in the core development
agenda of the Local Government Unit through the LDPC. The plan is embodied in the codification of the
Local Code for Children and is being realized through the annual investment planning of the City and
support for local mechanisms in convergence and partnership with the private sector and civil society.

Info on budgetary allocations for children

In 2019, the 1% LCPC fund was at Php 7,129,751.67 compared to Php 8,073,802.42 in 2020. This is an increase
of Php 944,050.75 (11.69%) for the year 2020. The City continues to prioritize the state of the children,
particularly the efforts to ensure that they are protected and nurtured despite the onset of the pandemic.

In addition to the 1% LCPC fund, the City allocates funds for children-related programs of the different
City Departments as well as the Local School Board’s Special Education Fund (SEF). These programs were
allocated a total of Php 34,710,937.91 in 2020 with utilization rate of 72.91% amounting to Php 25,307,716.57.
In 2020 (Table 1), Children’s Programs received an allocation of Php 62,114,899.53, with Php 14,502,505.21
increase or an additional 23.34% in funds for 2020. The City’s PPAs and expenditures for Children for 2020
are detailed below.

Table I. Budget Allocated for Children’s Programs - Utilization Report, CY 2020

Implementing Program/ Projects/ Utilization

Appropriation Expenditure Balance
Office Activities Rate
Scholarship Expenses 2,000,000.00 1,288,000.00 712,000.00 64.40%
Scholarship (for
1,500,000.00 1,121,600.00 74.77%
Indigents) 378,400.00
Education and Youth
5,000,000.00 4,975,143.25 24,856.75 99.50%
Office of the Development
City Mayor
Provision of
educational supplies
8,000,000.00 7,850,000.00 150,000.00 98.13%
to elementary school
students
Sports Development 2,500,000.00 1,767,229.00 732,771.00 70.69%

Office of the
Child Friendly
City Mayor
Barangay Reading 500,000.00 504,037.00 (4,037.00) 100.81%
(Library
Centers
Services)

Career guidance and

Public counselling workshop
Employment for Grade 11 & 12 320,000.00 0.00 320,000.00 0.00%
Services Office students of public
schools

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 Conduct of Newborn
150,000.00 148,750.00 1,250.00 99.17%
Screening
Supplemental
1,000,000.00 998,537.50 1,462.50 99.85%
Feeding
Garantisadong
300,000.00 146,050.00 153,950.00 48.68%
Office of the Pambata
City Health Provision of Thermal
Officer 223,961.62 0.00 223,961.62 0.00%
Scanners
Provision and
Distribution of Dental 1,100,000.00 300,000.00 800,000.00 27.27%
Kits
Provision of
1,200,000.00 1,000,000.00 200,000.00 83.33%
Multivitamins
Office of the Local Council for
City Social the Protection of
Welfare and Children Meetings
Development Logistics (validation
Officer of BCPC Functionality, 300,000.00 59,952.00 240,048.00 19.98%
Honorarium of
Validators, Supplies
and Materials, Vehicle
Transportation)
PANAGKIKIBIN-
Community based
services for CICL/CAR 200,000.00 127,800.00 72,200.00 63.90%
(4phases intervention
for CAR/CICL)

Children’s Month
Celebration/People’s 300,000.00 215,680.00 84,320.00 71.89%
Day for Children
Children can SMILE
(Skills, Mechanism,
Innovation and
500,000.00 460,284.00 39,716.00 92.06%
Leadership for
Excellence) Project-
Day Care Pupils
Barangay Council
for the Protection
100,000.00 0.00 100,000.00 0.00%
of Children (BCPC)
Training
Peer Education 50,000.00 0.00 50,000.00 0.00%
Tuloy Aral Walang
160,000.00 160,000.00 0.00 100.00%
Sagabal
Conduct of Kusina
ng Kalinga (Feeding
2,000,000.00 1,181,615.00 818,385.00 59.08%
Program) in all Public
Elementary Schools
Local School Special Education
34,710,937.91 25,307,716.57 9,403,221.34 72.91%
Board Fund
GRAND TOTAL 62,114,899.53 47,612,394.32 14,502,505.21 76.65%

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Local mechanisms for child rights promotion

The City has a functional Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC) which was established
under Executive Order No. 2-2003 ‘Organizing the City Council for the Protection of Children (CCPC)
of the City of San Fernando, La Union, Its Composition and Functions’. The LCPC spearheads the Child
Friendly and Children’s Rights promotion initiatives of the City. There are also Barangay CPC’s in each
barangay in the City that ensure that children’s rights are promoted and protected at the grassroots
and community level.

Through the LCPC, the City Government guarantees the rights of the children of the City. Through
its efforts, existing child protection laws are enforced at the local level and current gaps in
legislation are addressed. The LCPC reviews current ordinances and other issuances on children,
provides updates to the Children’s Code, and advocates new child-friendly ordinances and other
issuances.

To enhance the capabilities of the LCPC, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) is
continuously strengthening the implementation of the ‘Panagkikibin’ program. This project has yielded
significant impact, institutionalizing a system strengthening the BCPC on matters of Juvenile Justice
and Welfare, though periodic conduct of a series of seminars with the following salient topics discussed:

• The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the child. The rights of a child were enumerated
and explained in Filipino dialect with the emphasis that the main focus is the best welfare of
the child.
• Understanding child development
• Concepts on child development
• Theories on child development
• Psychosocial development theory by Erik Erikson
• Risk factors in child development in the Philippine context
• The importance of organizing the BCPC and understanding the role of the BCPC as a
protective mechanism for children in need of special protection
• Composition, structure as well as the process of organizing the BCPC.
• Functionality Indicators of the BCPC
• Planning, and Budgeting of 1% for children.
• Preparation of a Situational Analysis.

The City also has a Local Youth Development Council (LYDC) which was established via Executive
Order NO. 42-2018: ‘An Executive Order Creating the City Youth Development Council and Its Technical
Working Group’. The LYDC actively works with the Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) towards the
advancement of the youth of the City by implementing various programs and projects intended to uplift
their socioeconomic wellbeing despite the effects of the pandemic.

Measures taken to make the principles and provision of CRC widely known

The City’s child protection stakeholders have made concerted efforts to promote awareness and
appreciation of the United Nation’s Convention of Children’s Rights (CRC) and its core principles of non-
discrimination; devotion to the best interests of the child; the right to life, survival, and development; and
respect for the views of the child. The City conducts various Information and Education Campaigns (IECs)
and City-wide awareness programs focused on protecting and uplifting the lives of the children of the
City. The target audience is all sectors, audiences, and communities from their homes to their parents,
to their schools, to their peers and society at large, the City has established a wide network of PPAs to
disseminate the ideals of the CRC.

One of the significant measures undertaken and implemented by the City to advance awareness of the
CRC has been the institutionalization of the Children’s Month Celebration. In 2018, Resolution No. 18-
180 established the 2nd Tuesday of every November as Children’s Day and every November as Children’s
Month in the City of San Fernando.

During the National Children’s Month Celebration in November 2021, a series of activities highlighting the
commitment of the City in protecting and upholding the rights of children and assistance and reach-out
activities was conducted by the City:

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 • Poem Recitation and Best Tiktok Kids;
• Provision of baby kits to solo parents, teenage moms, and indigent parents;
• Provision of Food Packs to Grade 1 students;
• Search for Batang Kwentista ng San Fernando;
• Learn and Quiz Play

Cooperation with NGOs, FBO, civil society organizations in advancing children’s rights

The City Government is fortunate to have the full support of Non-Government, Faith-Based, and Civil
Society Organizations, which have become constant partners in our delivery of services, especially in
driving the advancement of children’s rights in the City. The City’s partnership activities include:

The City Social Welfare and Development Office’s (CSWDO) ‘Panagkikibin’ program, with its theme of
‘Bringing a Brighter Future’ for the Children of City of San Fernando, La Union, saw the participation
of several private sector partners. Phase I, was conducted from March 12-15, 2020. Phase 1 included a
Psycho-Spiritual Development Program in partnership with the St. Louis College (SLC) Graduate School
Students - Doctor Education Program. Other partners included the Science of Identity Foundation
(SIF) Care which is the humanitarian arm of the Identity Foundation which advocates enlightenment
of individuals through spiritual love and compassion, the Coastal Underwater Resource Management
Actions (CURMA) which is a marine turtle conservation program, and Lotus Valley which is an organic
eco-tourism farm and wellness sanctuary.

Another avenue of partnership was created since the establishment of NASUDI Center for Women and
Children on November 18, 2020. The Center has formed a partnership with Sibuan-Otong Methodist
Church (SOMC) and the City of San Fernando Pastors Fellowship (CSFPF) to conduct spiritual wellness
activities. Besides this, Daily Bread devotion is also done every morning to help beneficiaries develop an
increased sense of personal purpose and compassion towards other people and nature.

Aside from the Programs and Services, the Center has also established and coordinated with a network of
support facilities such as National Government Agencies, People’s Organizations, and Non-Government
Organizations. The Center and Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMSU) – Mid-La Union
Campus (MLUC) Extension, through a Memorandum of Agreement, has formed a partnership that will
provide technical expertise on Capability Enhancement Program in the facility. Private organizations
such as (spell out) SOMC, CSFPF, La Union Vibrant Women, Inc. (LUVWI), La Union Medical Society (LUMS),
Rotary Club, Inner Wheel, and Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) – La Union have contributed and
donated for the improvement of the Center so it can better serves its residents. NGA assistance included
a, Health Orientation conducted by the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) – Regional Office 1 while
the Department of Agriculture (DA) also donated seeds for gardening activities, and Regional Juvenile
Justice and Welfare Council (RJJWC) – Region 1 conducted a group dynamics exercise for the residents.

These are but a few of the public-private partnerships that the City’s children have benefited from. With
the various PPAs for children being implemented by the City, the private sector has been a valuable partner
that has provided a variety of assistance and resources, as can be seen throughout the accomplishments
detailed in this report.

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GENERAL PRINCIPLES

Non-Discrimination

Article 2 of the United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of the Child:

1. States Parties shall respect and ensure the rights set forth in the present Convention to each child within
their jurisdiction without discrimination of any kind, irrespective of the child’s or his or her parent’s or legal
guardian’s race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin,
property, disability, birth or other status.

2. States Parties shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that the child is protected against all forms
of discrimination or punishment on the basis of the status, activities, expressed opinions, or beliefs of the
child’s parents, legal guardians, or family members.

The City ensures that equality between girls and boys is promoted and every child’s sexual orientation
is respected through the establishment of a database on children to monitor the increase/decrease on
reported cases on the feeling of well-being or discrimination.

Aligned with the objective of the ‘Panagkikibin’ program is the Sexually Healthy and Personally Effective
(SHAPE) Adolescents activity which was actively participated in by 20 Children in Conflict with the Law
/ Children at Risk (CICL/CAR) and parents. This activity offers practical guidance among parents and
guardians of CICL/CAR participants. It guides these children to better value their uniqueness, adolescent
health, and development which will help them with the challenges at different stages of their life.

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Best Interests of the Child

United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of Children, Article 3:

1. In all actions concerning children, whether undertaken by public or private social welfare institutions,
courts of law, administrative authorities or legislative bodies, the best interests of the child shall be a
primary consideration.

2. States Parties undertake to ensure the child such protection and care as is necessary for his or her well-
being, taking into account the rights and duties of his or her parents, legal guardians, or other individuals
legally responsible for him or her, and, to this end, shall take all appropriate legislative and administrative
measures.

3. States Parties shall ensure that the institutions, services and facilities responsible for the care or
protection of children shall conform to the standards established by competent authorities, particularly
in the areas of safety, health, in the number and suitability of their staff, as well as competent supervision.

Children are vulnerable and require support for them to fully exercise and enjoy the rights they are entitled
to. It is up to the City and its stakeholders and institutions, especially those that have a significant and
meaningful impact and influence, to ensure that all actions they undertake will be most beneficial for the
children of the City.

As a People’s City that is working to sustain its status as a Child-Friendly City, this ideal is ingrained in
its operations and governance as can be seen in the various PPAs for children being implemented by
the entire City Government. These PPAs are spearheaded by the City Social Welfare and Development
Office (CSWDO), the City Health Office (CHO), and the various councils, committees, and offices which
altogether form a strong network of children’s rights advocates.

Right to Life, Survival and Development

United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of Children, Article 6:

1. States Parties recognize that every child has the inherent right to life.

2. States Parties shall ensure to the maximum extent possible the survival and development of the child.

The City Health Office, which is the health care steward in the City ensures that this right to life and
survival are upheld. The City recorded 531 child births for CY 2021. CHO has helped pregnant women
receive prenatal check-ups, skilled delivery care, postnatal care services, and care related to COVID-19
as needed. Ensuring health workers are provided with the necessary personal protective equipment and
get priority testing and vaccination once a COVID-19 vaccine becomes available so that they can deliver
high-quality care to all pregnant women and newborn babies during the pandemic.

To bring light to this right of a child for life and development, the City Social Welfare and Development
Office’s (CSWDO) ‘Panagkikibin’ program was strengthened since its launching in 2019. As the Ilocano
term suggests, it provides guidance to children to be responsible individuals and has become the central
theme of the child development program of the City Government in terms of promoting child development
and protection even amid the pandemic. The City Social Welfare Development Office has successfully
hosted the two-pronged phases of the ‘Panagkikibin’ program:

• The first phase is dubbed as ‘Lawag ti Namnama para Kadagiti Agtutubo (LINDA)’ which is centered
on the Psycho-Spiritual Development Program participated in by the Diversion Committee from
the 59 barangays of the City, law enforcement officers from the Philippine National Police (PNP),
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (CIDG), Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG),
and Parents of the CICL and CAR. This five-day activity provides updates to duty bearers in the
implementation of the law as stipulated in RA 9344 as amended by RA 10630.
• The second phase is a Learning Development Program that is centered on Sexually Healthy and
Personally Effective (SHAPE) Adolescents which was actively participated in by 20 CICL/CAR and
parents.

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Respect for the view of a child

United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of Children, Article 6:

1. States Parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her own views the right to
express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the views of the child being given due weight
in accordance with the age and maturity of the child.

2. For this purpose, the child shall in particular be provided the opportunity to be heard in any judicial
and administrative proceedings affecting the child, either directly, or through a representative or an
appropriate body, in a manner consistent with the procedural rules of national law

Participation is vital in ensuring that children’s rights are respected. The City provides opportunities for
the sector to be heard, for their ideas and opinions to be considered, and their views to be respected.
To uphold and promote this right, the City Government established the Children’s Parliament of the City
of San Fernando. Members of the Children’s Parliament will serve as the Child Representatives of the
different special bodies and committees in the City Council. Children representatives are also present
in advisory councils and decision-making bodies. There are currently four (4) child representatives in the
LCPC and each Barangay CPC has its own child representative member.

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CIVIL RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS

Birth registration, name and identity

The rights of children are inherent and the right to life begins at birth thus the legal registration of the
child’s name and identity is vital to his civil rights and freedom not only as a child but as a citizen of society.
To ensure that all children are afforded this right, the City’s Civil Registry Office conducts Information
and Education Campaigns (IEC) and advocacy campaigns to the 59 barangays to encourage parents
to register their newborn children. The City Health Office, through the Barangay Health and Wellness
Volunteers and midwives, are regularly monitoring pregnant women until they have given birth and remind
new mothers to register their babies at the City Registry.

Access to appropriate information

The City Government conducts various Information and Education Campaigns (IEC) through various
formats and media, targeting a wide range of sectors in line with its efforts to disseminate information
and awareness on the rights of children. Activities in schools and communities allow the City to engage
the people directly in open discussions in an exchange of ideas. Posting of IEC materials in educational
institutions, establishments frequented by children, and at the Barangay Hall also help to raise awareness
and disseminate information. The City website and Facebook pages are also sources of information.

The ‘Panagkikibin’ program is one significant avenue for the city to ensure appropriate information is
accessed by the children. This program includes a General Orientation & Parenting Seminar which is
meant to develop awareness among Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) and Children At Risk (CAR)
and their parents. Information on the program’s benefits, as well as the parents’ role in the success of the
program, were highlighted. Teachers from St. Louis College discussed parenting styles and then shared
their experiences about marriage, family, children, and life wherein each parent was given an opportunity
to share their personal experiences.

Freedom of expression, freedom of association and assembly

The state has an obligation to allow, protect and facilitate peaceful assemblies and highlights to what
extent specific measures are required to realize this right for all children. This also emphasizes the City’s
role to reassure the sense of belongingness by empowering them to express their thought and insights in
an assembly or group they are associated with.

The Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) seeks to reach the widest range of youth in the City to
impart helpful information that will empower them by raising their awareness and encouraging
active participation in all government initiatives especially brokered for the youth sector. With
the onset of COVID-19, the City Government faced challenges in providing public service to the
people. However, with perseverance and dedication, the City finds its way to adjust and adapt to
the New Normal to continue its purpose towards becoming a People’s City.

The LYDO started its Online Youth Advocacy on June 2021 and continues to conduct advocacy campaign
that is anchored to advocacy campaigns celebrated monthly across the globe using hybrid modality.
Activities include webinar series, competitions conducted online, and output-based competitions.

Month and Theme Activity/Competition Number of Entries

Spoken Poetry 10
Pride Month (June)
Advocacy Shirt Design 13
Nutrition Month (July) Healthy Recipe Vlog 9
Peace is Possible (September) Peace Digital Poster Slogan 5
Photo Contest 24
Mental Health Awareness Infographics 31
(October) Learn on Tiktok 7
Feature Writing Contest 24
TOTAL 123 entries

SOCHA 2021 11
Moreover, the Panagkikibin Phase 2, allows more shaping opportunities as CSWDO expands its Learning
and Development Program coined as SHAPE to children by expressing their sexuality and managing
changing feelings and expectations. This five-day seminar held last March 29 – 31, 2021 outlines a life
stage approach that serves as a guide to better value the uniqueness of the adolescent in the community
development.

Protection of privacy

Children are protected from potential risks to their safety, security, and privacy in the digital environment
hence the conduct of the following activities:

• Awareness-raising activities on the advantages and disadvantages of internet and social

media use of children thru multimedia, symposiums, and school-based activities;
• Regulation of gadget and social media use in schools and public places;
• Study the possibility of regulating the use/availability of inappropriate websites for children;
• Responsible use of social media
• Intensive monitoring of internet cafes to observe curfew and access to inappropriate
websites.

The City adheres to national laws and regulations on privacy matters and applies and implements
these as needed in coordination with the appropriate line agencies. The rights of children are protected
by privacy laws that ensure that their identity and personal well-being are not abused or violated as
provided for under Presidential Decree No. 603 also known as The Child and Youth Welfare Code.

As part of the activities of Panagkikibin, the CSWDO spearheaded a seminar on the ‘Role of Parents in
the Virtual Life of Children’ which was discussed by Mr. Al Gerald Barde, Education Supervisor II, CHED.
This activity empowers parents on how to reinforce the value of responsible media usage to their children
with an emphasis on privacy laws and non-disclosure of personal information.

Corporal punishment

The City adheres to the rules and regulations under Republic Act 9262 ‘Anti-Violence Against Women
(VAWC) and Their Children’ and acts immediately and accordingly and coordinates with agencies
including the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Department of Social Welfare and Development
(DWSD) in cases where children are subject to excessive punishment or cruel acts.

To ensure that these prime rights are upheld, the City Government has taken a huge leap in its effort to
protect children and women through the launching of the NASUDI Center for Women and Children on
November 18, 2020. Since its opening, the Center has been a safe haven for children that has provided
temporary home and protective custody to thirty-seven (37) clients in difficult circumstances and high-
risk situations. Among the residents, there are two (2) victims VAWC including five (5) children, twenty-
seven (27) abused children and three (3) Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL).

Table II. Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking-Violence Against Women and Children

(LCAT-VAWC) Plan for CY 2021

Programs, Projects and Activities Amount

Operationalization of NASUDI Protection Center 2,500,000.00
Hiring of 11 staff for the NASUDI City Protection Center 3,000,000.00
Conduct Quarterly Meetings 20,000.00
LCAT /VAWC Planning and Budgeting Sessions 70,000.00
LCAT/VAWC Sessions 10,000.00
Training for duty bearers 100,000.00
Provide assessment service & immediate response to problems such as
medical, legal, shelter, psychological, protective, food and transporta- 200,000.00
tion
Assess functionality of VAW Desk Office and Officers 300,000.00

SOCHA 2021 12
Under the Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking-Violence Against Women and Children (LCAT-VAWC) Plan
for CY 2021, the City has appropriated a total of Php 6,200,000.00 in the protection and upholding of
rights of these vulnerable groups particularly the children.

Right not to be subjected to torture and other cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment or punishment

The local City police has recorded no Children at Risk (CAR) incidents this year and a dramatic decrease
of 80% in the number of Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) due to the containment measures and
intensified implementation of information advocacies of the City in partnership with its stakeholders.

Table III. City of San Fernando Police Station Cases of Children at Risk and Children in Conflict with
the Law for CY 2019, 2020 and 2021

YEAR Children at Risk (CAR) Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL)
2019 13 17
2020 10 10
2021 0 2
The City Police Station’s Project R.O.Y.A.L., (Rescue of Youngsters in Conflict with the City Acts and Laws of
the City of San Fernando), is seen as a substantial initiative that contributes to the reduction of the cases
of CICL. This strengthened police-initiated effort composed of an all-female Patrol Squad encourages
the community and parents’ involvement to save youth from wrongdoings and to guide them to become
successful individuals and partners in the peace and development.

SOCHA 2021 13
FAMILY ENVIRONMENT AND ALTERNATIVE CARE

How ‘Best Interest of the Child’ and ‘Respect for the views of the Child’ are reflected in addressing issues

Children need to be recognized by the members of their family environment as active rights holders who
have the capacity to become full and responsible citizens, given the proper guidance and direction.
Children need to be recognized by the members of their family environment as active rights holders who
have the capacity to become full and responsible citizens, given the proper guidance and direction.

During the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many families were pushed into poverty, and children in
lockdown were especially vulnerable to violence at home. Children have been deeply affected by the
mental health impacts of being confined and isolated and the new mode of education has caused them
a great deal of stress and anxiety. As an intervention, the LYDO has intensified its mental awareness
campaign focused on productive activities children and youth can do in the pandemic. To raise awareness
on mental health, it has conducted a series of activities to engage the youth in line with the National
Mental Awareness month this October 2021. LYDO hosted a feature writing contest, Tiktok Challenge,
Mental Health Infographics Making Contest, and Webinar all towards the health and well-being of the
children and youth of the City.

In line with the 28th National Celebration of Children’s Month in November of 2021, the City Government of
San Fernando conducted several activities for children focusing on children’s rights and reflective of the
theme “Sama-samang Itaguyod Ang Karapatan ng Bawat Bata sa Panahon ng Pandemya!” Activities
that served the best interest of the children along with highlighting the respect of the views of the children
are highlighted in this celebration that showcased not only their talent and creativity but most importantly
their thoughts and insights on matters of relevance in their development.

Parental guidance and parental responsibilities

Family is essential to the development of the child and parents must provide for the ‘best interest of the
child’ as well as ‘respect the views of the child’ as provided for by the CRC ideals. The CSWDO conducts
the Parents Effectiveness Services (PES) and Family Development Sessions (FDS) to facilitate discussions
on child development, family, environment, and family planning and to provide and expand knowledge
and skills of parents and others involved in child care so they can assume the major educational role in
their child’s development.

A Flexi-time scheme is also an option for City Government employees to allow employees who have
children to spend quality time with their children. The Human Resource Management Office (HRMO) is
studying the flexi-time scheme to make appropriate recommendations based on a survey that will be
conducted as to its advantages and disadvantages and determine the interest of employees.

Separation from parents

Children deprived of parental care or at risk of losing parental care

The LCPC organizes training for social workers in alternative parental care, adoption, placement, diversion,
and related laws to ensure that the best interest of the child will always be the primary consideration
in all actions concerning children such as in removal from parental care, placement, and reintegration
decisions. The CSWDO conducts counselling sessions and interventions directly with the parents or
guardians of children at risk from parental separation to facilitate an amicable solution and to try to
address the specific issue of the concerned so that the separation can be prevented.

Abuse, neglect, abandonment, mistreatment and violence, foster care, adoption and other forms of
alternative parental care

The ‘Adoption of the Protocol for Case Management of Child Victims of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation’
by the Sangguniang Panlungsod along with its strict implementation which the CSWDO oversees are
critical steps in this area of children protection. The establishment of the NASUDI Center for Women
and Children that temporary house of possible victims is a tangible leap in the effort to raise the bar of
alternative parental care against these acts of wrongdoings.

SOCHA 2021 14
BASIC HEALTH AND WELFARE

Health and Health Services

The City’s previous strategic vision was to become the Center for Health and Wellness in Northern
Luzon. One of the strategic initiatives implemented during the run of the strategy was the upgrading of
barangay health stations to become Health & Wellness (H&W) Facilities. Each barangay has an H&W
Station or Clinic and the City Health Office is housed at the central H&W Center and is open 24/7. The
City established Telemedicine or Call Center Coordination Units through the assigned Designated Point
Persons to facilitate online consultations and emergency patient transfer as possible relative to COVID-19
response.

There are now two (2) City Health Offices (CHOs) – one at the Marcos Building at City Hall and one at
Barangay Bangbangolan, 5 H&W or Lying-In Clinics, and 54 H&W Stations in the 59 barangays. The
City is also home to no less than 5 hospitals, including the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center
(ITRMC) and 4 tertiary private hospitals, as well as one (1) Diagnostic Center and 203 clinics. PHILHEALTH
Accreditation has been granted to the City’s main health facility for both Maternal and Primary Care
Services, providing for a well-established local health care system for all citizens, most especially the
children of the City.

Table IV. City Health Profile of San Fernando City for CY 2019, 2020 and 2021

ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2021

2019 2020 2021
Total Pop: 127,144 Total Pop: 128,671 Total Pop: 130,114
Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total
Total Live Births 465 352 817 703 683 1,392 271 260 531
Total Deaths 759 727 1,486 437 343 780 207 224 431
Fetal Deaths 11 2 13 11 5 16 2 0 2
Neonatal Deaths 21 19 40 15 19 34 2 2 4
Infant Deaths 7 3 10 5 3 8 1 1 2
Child Deaths 4 2 6 2 0 2 0 0 0
Maternal Deaths - 0 0 - 0 0 - 1 1

The data shows that Total Live Births from 2019 to 2021. It shows an increase of 41.3% from 2019 in
live births compared to 2020. Recorded live births went down by 61.85 % in 2021 from 1,392 live births in
2020. Total deaths decrease to 780 (47.51%) from 2019 to 2020 and went down steadily to 431
(44.74%) from 2020 to 2021. Data on Fetal Deaths indicate that there’s an increase of 3 (18.75%) from
2019 to 2020 but dramatically decreased to 2 (87.5%) from 2020 to 2021. On neonatal deaths, a
considerable decrease is noted with 34 deaths (15%) from 2019 to 2020 and significantly dropped to
only 4 deaths (88.23%) from 2020 to 2021. Infant Deaths both decreased to 8 (20%) from 2019 to 2020
and 2 (75%) from 2019 to 2020. Child Deaths dipped steadily to only 2 (66.67%) from 2019 to 2020 to no
case of child deaths for 2021. There are no maternal deaths registered both for 2019and 2020 however,
one case was registered for 2021.
Table V. Accomplished Programs of the City Health Office for CY 2019, 2020 and 2021
PROGRAM/
STAGE INDICATORS PROJECT 2019 BENEFICIARIES 2020 BENEFICIARIES 2021 BENEFICIARIES
BENEFICIARIES
Target Acc. % Target Acc. % Target Acc. %
Pre-Marital Number of Responsible
Stage Couples Parenthood
Counseled Actual 1486 n/a Actual 305 n/a Actual - n/a

SOCHA 2021 15
Conception, Maternal a. PRENATAL CARE

Neonatal, Rate 1. Prenatal 2262 1644 72.68 2277 1495 65.65 2409 809 33.58
Consultation
Infancy
2. Pregnant
women given
2262 1210 53.49 2277 1164 51.12 2409 553 22.96
Tetanus Toxoid
Infant Immunization
Rate 3. Iron & Folic Acid
2262 1378 60.92 2277 1402 61.57 2409 499 20.71
Supplementation
Neonatal b. NEONATAL
CARE
Rate 2262 1495 66.09 2277 1513 66.44 2409 531 22.04
Total No. of
Deliveries
Facility-based
2262 1495 66.09 1513 1513 100 531 531 100
Deliveries
Deliveries handled
2262 1495 66.09 1513 1513 100 531 531 100
Fetal by personnel
Deliveries initiated
Rate 2262 1446 63.93 1513 1488 98.34 531 531 100
Breastfeeding
Women practicing
Exclusive
Breastfeeding 2262 1526 67.46 2200 1488 67.64 2327 739 31.76
(6mos) – including
hospital deliveries
Nutritional c. INFANCY
Status Immunization
2262 1446 63.93 2277 1494 65.61 2409 536 22.25
No. of children
given BCG
No. of children
given Penta 3 2277 1466 64.38 2409 787 32.67
Childhood vaccine 2262 1573 69.54
No. of children
given Measles
vaccine 2277 1607 70.57 2409 696 28.89
2262 1559 68.92

No. of Fully-
Immunized Child 2277 1512 66.40 2409 701 29.10
2262 1462 64.63

d. Operation
Timbang (0-59
mos.)

13,622 9406 69.05 11,972 8699 72.66 12,834 8691 67.72

Dental Dental Service

(Day care to Actual 1863 n/a - - - - - -
Status Grade 6)
Adolescence Basic STI/HIV No. of students
AIDS Advoca- participated Actual n/a n/a - - - - - -
cy in Schools

SOCHA 2021 16
Table VI. Nutritional Status of 0-71 months of children of the City of San Fernando based on Operation
Timbang Program of the City Health Office 2019-2021

WEIGHT FOR AGE STATUS

2019 2020 2021

NUTRITIONAL Boy Girl Total % Boy Girl Total % Boy Girl Total %
STATUS
Normal (N) 4994 4114 918 93.84 4253 3959 8212 94.40 4299 3989 8288 95.36
Underweight 141 161 302 3.11 100 108 208 2.39 83 87 170 1.96
(UW)
Severely 35 39 74 0.76 32 25 57 0.66 24 18 42 0.48
Underweight
(SUW)
O ve r we i g h t 136 86 222 2.29 123 99 222 2.55 108 83 191 2.20
(OW)
Total 5006 4400 9706 100 4508 4191 8699 100 4514 4177 8691 100

Combined
UW & SUW 176 200 376 3.87 132 133 265 3.05 107 105 212 2.44

The table above shows an improving nutritional state among children in the city. There is a steady increase
in the percentage of children with normal weight, from 93.84% in 2019 to 94.40% in 2020, and 95.38% in
2021 respectively. Below Nutritional Status classification (Underweight, Severely Underweight) registered
a downward trend for the period in review.

Table VII. Nutritional Status of 0-71 months of children of the City of San Fernando based on Operation
Timbang Program of the City Health Office 2019-2021

LENGTH/HEIGHT FOR AGE STATUS

2019 2020 2021

NUTRITIONAL Boy Girl Total % Boy Girl Total % Boy Girl Total %
STATUS
Normal (N) 4581 4030 8611 91.55 4186 3901 8087 92.96 4300 3974 8274 95.20
Stunted (St) 257 243 500 5.32 226 181 407 4.68 125 117 242 2.78
Severely 95 69 164 1.74 43 48 91 1.05 42 45 87 1.00
Stunted (SSt)
Tall (T) 74 57 131 1.39 52 62 114 1.31 47 41 88 1.01
Total 5007 4399 9406 100 4507 4192 8699 100 454 4177 8691 100
Combined St & 352 312 664 7.06 269 229 498 5.73 167 162 329 3.78
SSt

The data above on Combined Stunted and Severely Stunted indicates a stable decrease of 166 (25%)
from 2019 to 2020, and of 169 (33.93%) from 2020 to 2021. The steady improvement registered from 2019 to
2021, is indicative of the impact of the CHO’s PPAs on the health of the children of the City.

SOCHA 2021 17
 Table VIII. Nutritional Status of 0-71 months of children of the City of San Fernando based on
Operation Timbang Program of the City Health Office 2019-2021

WEIGHT FOR LENGTH/HEIGHT STATUS

2019 2020 2021

NUTRITIONAL Boy Girl Total % Boy Girl Total % Boy Girl Total %
STATUS
Normal (N) 4786 4238 9024 94.08 4305 4019 8324 94.71 4343 4041 8384 95.58
Wasted (W) 73 77 150 1.56 51 47 98 1.12 48 49 97 1.11
Severely 40 37 77 0.80 20 20 40 0.46 15 14 29 0.33
Wasted (SW)
O ve r we i g h t 131 88 219 2.28 106 86 192 2.18 72 64 136 1.55
(Ow)
Obese (Ob) 72 50 122 1.27 75 60 135 1.54 75 51 126 1.44
Total 5102 4490 9592 100 4557 4232 8789 100 4553 4219 8772 100
Combine W & 113 114 227 2.36 71 67 138 1.58 63 63 126 1.44
SW

The above data shows a considerable improvement in the percentage of children with normal weight
for length/height status. On the Combined Wasted and Severely Wasted category, there is a noticeable
decrease of 89 (39.2%) from 2019 to 2020 and also a decrease of 12 (8.06%) from 2019 to 2020.

Table IX. Rehabilitation Comparative Report on Feeding Program 2019-2021

Rehabilitation Result after Feeding

YEAR No. of children under the Feeding Program
Program
484 (0-59 Underweight, Severely Underweight,
2019 Wasted, Severely Wasted, Stunted and Severely 419 (86.57%)
Stunted children)
635 (0-59 Underweight, Severely Underweight,
2020 Wasted, Severely Wasted, Stunted and Severely 517 (81.42%)
Stunted children)
426 (0-59 Underweight, Severely Underweight,
2021 Wasted, Severely Wasted, Stunted and Severely Feeding program is still ongoing.
Stunted children)

Feeding programs aim to provide meals to our undernourished 0-59 months old children who have very
little or no access to nutritious food due to their condition. The implementation of a feeding program was
a challenge in 2020 since strict health protocols needed to be observed at all times during the conduct
of this activity. Based on the data, there is a decrease in the rehabilitation result, from 86.57% in it went
down to 81.42% in 2021.

Environmental health

The public, including children, must become better aware of the various environmental concerns,
environmental laws and ordinances, and the things they can do or must not do to help preserve the
environment. Although children are confined at their household due to quarantine measures, the LYDO
has ensured continuous environmental advocacies are still being taken place, On May 7, 2021, the LYDO
spearheaded a Tree Planting Activity in the upper Sitio of Barangay Abut, City of San Fernando and5=was
participated in by youth volunteers who strictly observed the standard health protocols. A team-building
activity was also conducted to strengthen camaraderie and to encourage active participation of the
youth in environmental and ecological protection.

SOCHA 2021 18
HIV/AIDS

The city has programmed a series of activities to raise awareness on HIV/AIDS not only to adults but
to children. However, with the ongoing lockdown and quarantine procedures, the City Government has
turned to social media in its advocacy drive thru the Make It Red (Recognize, Educate and Discuss)
Competition utilizing Tiktok during the conduct of World Aids ‘Day in December 2020. Other line-up
activities, which include an Information drive on basic STI/HIV AIDS in Schools and screening will be
conducted upon the lifting of restrictions.

Children with disabilities

Special attention is continuously given to children with disabilities as the number of beneficiaries of
Educational Assistance is increased to cater to more beneficiaries. Under the ‘Tuloy Aral Walang Sagabal’
(TAWAG) program of the City Government through the CSWDO, the number of beneficiaries from this
program increased from 40 children for SY 2020-2021 to 60 children for SY 2021-2022. The program provides
Educational Assistance for Persons With Disabilities (PWD) Students with Each beneficiary receiving Php
4,000.00. The educational subsidy for this year totalled Php 240,000.00 which is an increase from
the Php 160,000.00 from the previous year.

Childcare services and facilities

Despite the pandemic, the CSWDO ensures that the progress of children in education is pursued. Child
development/daycare centers continuously operate and focus more on home visits and improved
monitoring of children’s health and mental well-being. There are 65 accredited Day Care Centers in the
City managed by 65 accredited Day Care Workers. There is one (1) Day Care Center newly constructed in
Barangay Nagyubyuban and two more ongoing constructions at Cadaclan and Pacpaco II respectively.
In 2019, there were 1,965 Day Care Children in these centers. There is a sharp decline in the number of
enrollees to 1,365 in 2020 due to the effect of the pandemic. This is attributed to the fear of the parents to
enroll their young children. With the continuous coordination, emphasis on the observance of public safety
protocols, and awareness activities conducted by the CSWDO on the relevance of undisrupted learning,
the number of enrolled day care children considerably went to up to1,470 this school year. The City’s
Child Development Workers ensure that despite the modular modality of learning being implemented,
the young children are able to avail of quality learning. The CSWDO ensures that all its day care centers‘
strictly adhere with the National Early Learning Framework to ensure the delivery of a full range of health,
nutrition, social, and early learning services for the child at all levels of development. As a guide, the
following are the salient activities conducted towards its realization:

• Parents Orientation involves parents’ orientation sessions for all parents of enrolled Day Care
Children. The sessions cover details of the programs and services of the Day Care and the
responsibilities of parents as well as pupils in the Child Development Center.
• Weekly Home visitation and virtual classes by Child Development workers;
• Periodic Nutritional Status Monitoring of Day Care Children
• Distribution of Learning Modules and Hygiene Kits to 1,470 Day Care Children.
• Participation of all Child Development Workers in the Virtual Seminar in line with the Nutrition
Month Celebration as part of their Capacity Building.
• Ensuring all Day Care Centers are functional and adaptive to the NewNormal

As part of the implementation of the Supplemental Program of the national government, the City received
food items from Department of Social Welfare and Development – Field Office I (DSWD FO1) amounting
to Php 1,611,350.00. Each Day care child received a bag of goods on two occasions in April and May of
2021. Another child care service facility for the protection of children is the NASUDI Center for Women and
Children. As the name of this center suggests, it offers pure and true commitment by providing temporary
shelter and protection to women and children who are victims of violence or at risk of further harm,
without discrimination nor judgment. This is also a venue to provide treatment and opportunity to relearn
necessary skills and ensure that all abused children at risk are safe, healthy, and developing to the best
of their potential within a nurturing family environment. The center will enable them to better support and
care for themselves. The facility managed and monitored by the City Social Welfare and Development
Office. The admitted residents are provided with immediate and appropriate intervention to help them
cope with social, psychological, and emotional problems arising from their crisis situations. Below are the
list of intervention and helping strategies of the Center:

SOCHA 2021 19
 Intervention and Strategies Accomplishment
Residential Care Services All admitted residents are given quality accommodation with
well-planned and prepared meals under the supervision or in
consultation with a nutritionist. Personal care such as toiletries
and basic clothing is provided upon admission.
Psycho-social Services Twenty-seven (27) clients have undergone stress management
activities and nine (9) Family Therapeutic Sessions were
conducted to address familial situations within members of the
family. Fifteen (15) were referred or subjected to Psychological
Evaluation.
Educational Services • Nineteen (19) admitted clients have been provided with
adequate school supplies and educational materials.
• There were eight (8) out-of-school youth catered to in
the center, two (2) school age-appropriate children with
no formal education were enrolled in a nearby integrated
school, three (3) of them are currently taking Alternative
Learning System while three (3) children were referred to
La Union SPED Center. There are also self-enhancement
activities for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) such as
gardening and rug-making.

Medical Services • Prior to admission, clients are subjected for Medical and
Physical Check-Up as part of the Center’s safety protocols.
There is also a scheduled Health Examination monthly done
by the City Health Office.
• Immunizations for infants, vitamins, and medicines are
administered to clients according to the City Health Officer’s
prescription and advice.
• Health and Wellness Program such as Physical Fitness, Proper
Hygiene, Training on First Aid and Handling/Management of
Common Health Problems were also conducted by partner
agency, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University –
Mid La Union Campus, to the residents of the Center.
Self-Enhancement & Skills Training • All residents are tasked with daily living experience that are
Program. flexible and balanced with sufficient routines and controls.
Work assignments are distributed in accordance with their
age, health, interest, and capacity.
• Thirteen (13) clients attended Rug-Making Skills Training
in addition to Gardening Activities, Cooking, and Baking
taught by the residential care staff.
Spiritual Enhancement Program The Center has formed a partnership with Sibuan-Otong
Methodist Church (SOMC) and City of San Fernando Pastors
Fellowship (CSFPF) to conduct spiritual wellness activities.

SOCHA 2021 20
 Legal Services • There are thirteen (13) residents with filed cases catered
to in the Center. Activities were conducted to prepare
the residents before the scheduled court hearing such as
guidance during trials and virtual conference hearing, and
de-briefing sessions after each hearing.
• Three (3) residents were also referred to legal counsel of
their choice and were given options before taking any legal
actions. The Center also boasts of an available retainer
lawyer that responds on the residents’ legal concerns
through the City Legal Office.
Referral Services • There were eight (8) clients referred to Department of Social
Welfare and Development’s Crisis Intervention Section
through grant of financial assistance for their emergency
expenses during their stay in the Center.
• Four (4) families were also referred to DSWD’s Livelihood
Assistance Grant to augment their families’ resiliency.
After-Care Services Fifteen (15) residents were already discharged from the Center,
all provided with appropriate turnover to the community and
family as well as after-care plan. They were also referred
to basic support services through the CSFPF’s after-care
treatment.

Standard of living

Standard of living refers to the level of wealth, comfort, material goods, and necessities available to a
certain socioeconomic class or geographic area.

The City government understands this perspective which puts a premium on reaching out to families
and children in the streets. The City Government thru its CSWDO aims to eliminate the stigma and social
exclusion faced by street children. For this year, the City was able to rescue ten (10) mendicants in the
streets. Three (3) of these are Badjao children endorsed to the BCPC of Barangay Ilocanos Sur and two
(2) minors from Barangay Saggayad. They are visited in their homes and counseled together with their
parents and guardians. The remaining five children were referred to the MSWDO of Bauang.

Anchored in the objective of the Panagkibkibin Program Phase 2 of the City is building a brighter future
for children,ot only capacitating the children but also engaging the parents in the holistic process of child
development. Part of the Learning Development Program conducted from March 29 to 31, 2021, CICL/
CAR children along with their parents is the discussion on the value of improving self-worth, flexibility,
and assertiveness, especially in this pandemic. The objective is to acquire more awareness for positive
transformation with the support of the parents to empower them to raise their standard of living.

SOCHA 2021 21
EDUCATION, LEISURE AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

Education, including vocational training and guidance

The City Government remains steadfast to provide equal opportunity for education which cuts across the
socio-economic and cultural sectors of the city. Aligned with this objective is accelerating assistance to
needy children and youth to provide an opportunity to lift themselves and their families out of poverty.

The City Government has made resources available to provide deserving indigent school children with
education assistance benefits increasing its appropriation for beneficiaries increasing Php 1,000 pesos
for each beneficiary. The CSWDO has a total of 18 High School beneficiaries who were provided Php
3,000.00 each while College beneficiaries were provided Php 5,000.00 per semester through the City’s
educational assistance program for SY 2020 – 2021. The first batch payout was given last October 4 – 6,
2021 to 6 college and 20 high school indigent students, while the second batch is being processed to
benefit 12 more colleges and 3 high school students. A total of Php 69,000.00 was provided for high school
students while a total of Php 90,000.00 was provided to college students.

Aside from the financial assistance, the City was also able to provide educational tools to the youth.
Recognizing the impact of education and the rights of the disadvantaged brothers and sisters, the City
Government through the Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) in coordination with the CSWDO was
able to provide educational tools to 50 back to school Out-of-School-Youth, Victims of Abuse for Child
Labor and Youth in Conflict with the Law at the NASUDI Center. Each educational package includes a
laptop table, highlighters, pencils, ball pens, calculators, and an intermediate pad.

In addition to the financial assistance and educational materials given, the City also provides guidance
to the youth through technical assistance, particularly on vocational and livelihood skills development.
This is the principal theme of the 2-day City La Union Encampment 2021 which was held from May 6- 7,
2021 at the Teen Center Conference, 2/F Marcos Building, City of San Fernando. This activity was hosted
by the LYDO to empower the youth in their role in the realization of the Philippine Youth Development Plan
(PYDP) of the city. Prior to livelihood skill training, the participants were oriented about the PYDP, learned
topics on Demystifying Drug Abuse and Mental Health Awareness among the youth. As the focus of the
activity, participants were able to take part in the native merienda cooking where trained Federation of
Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina (KALIPI) members served as the livelihood trainers. After the training, a return
demo was conducted and each of the participants received a starter kit consisting of a 3-layer steamer,
a set of measuring cups, and a set of puto molders

The City, thru its Public Library, is envisioned to provide basic quality information resources. It has
introduced innovative solutions towards the development of empowered children and youth towards
this purpose. In recognition of its efforts, the City Government, through Mr. Michael Nagas, Officer-in-
Charge of the City Library, received the Unang Gantimpala of the 2020 Gawad Parangal sa Natatanging
Tagapaglingkod sa Pampublikong Aklatan from the National Library of the Philippines, Non-Professional
Category. Among the most outstanding initiatives of the City Library are the following:

• Establishment of Barangay Reading Centers, especially in the uplands, and conduct of an Online
Storytelling program together with the National Library of the Philippines.
• Launched the On The Go Pick Up Books, which allows citizens to contact the City Library San
Fernando, La Union, and request books that they need for school. After the confirmation of its
availability, the City Library prepares the books for pick-up. Upon being returned to the library,
these books are isolated for 72 hours and are disinfected for the next user’s safety. In this manner,
there is less person-to-person contact and intensified prevention of the possible spread of the
virus, making sure that our learners are always safe and healthy.
• The ‘Book Saves’ program aims to provide comfort, new insight, and welcome escape for CoViD-19
patients by providing them books and other reading materials during their isolation in line with the
New Normal.
• Establishment of a Mini Library at NASUDI Center for Women and Children in compliance with the
provision in the DSWD’s Indicator and Standards for Residential Care Services to provide a good
mini-library.

SOCHA 2021 22
The Department of Education (DepEd) an important pillar of the City in learning development, has
aggressively introduced strategies in the effective implementation of Distance Learning which are as
follows:

• Regular Kumustahan with Learners where students are checked on by their teachers relative to
the learning process. Remedial sessions were also offered for slow learners.
• Psychosocial and Mental Activities are given to learners to help them with depressions and other
mental health issues.
• Parents’ orientation on how to assist children in learning and skills in teaching basic reading skills
for Grade 1 to Grade 3 parents.
• Limited face to face is encouraged where circumstances allow.

Quality of education

The City Government has made it a focus to strengthen its partnership with the Department of Education
to provide the best possible quality of education for the children of the City. For its efforts, the City
Government receives its first Seal of Good Governance (SGEG), awarded by the United States Agency
for International Development (USAID) and Synergeia Foundation for 2020. The USAID and Synergeia
Foundation recognized the resiliency of the City’s education sector despite the year-long pandemic.
The City Government has been resourceful and efficient in delivering basic education to its communities
while taking into consideration the health and safety of the pupils with the following specific strategies
highlighted:

• The local government owes the achievement to the City’s passionate educators and parents who
unselfishly partnered with the City in devising alternatives that will help our children learn better
in the New Normal.
• Blended learning modality is offered to different learners where some educational institutions use
pure modular modality while others have combined online, off-line modular modality.
• Study-Buddy Program (you may want to provide details)
• Operationalization of 33 Teen Centers and Learning Hubs
• Remedial sessions and one-on-one sessions with learners with learning disabilities

As the regional center, the City is also a center for education with a significant number of educational
institutions located in the City. The DEPED City Schools Division (CSD) reports that there is currently a
total of 61 schools in the City: 33 public, 27 private, and one (1) State Universities and Colleges. Of that
total, the CSD also reported that four (4) schools closed down during the pandemic period. Among the 61
schools, there are a total of 143 pre-school, elementary, and secondary facilities serving the City.

Table X. Education Institutions in the City of San Fernando, La Union

School Level Public Private Total

Pre-Elementary 27 19 46
Elementary 27 18 45
High School
* Junior High School 12 15 27
* Senior High School 9 16 25

One of the measures of an effective education system is the Completion Rate which is defined as the
percentage of first-year entrants in a level of education who complete or finish the level in accordance
with the required number of years of study. The table below indicates an increase in the completion
rate for the elementary level in SY 2019 -2020. With the implementation of the K-12 program expanding
the secondary level with the inclusion of Junior High (Grade 11) and Senior High School (Grade 12), the
completion rate is recorded at 83.74% and 75.98% respectively.

SOCHA 2021 23
 Table XI. Completion Rate in Public, Private, SUC Educational Institutions

SY 2017-2018 SY 2018-2019 SY 2019-2020

ELEMENTARY
Public, SUC and Private 98.94% 99.15% 94.57%
SECONDARY
Public, SUC and Private 83.24% 98.15%
* Junior High School 83.74% (JHS)
* Senior High School 75.98% (SHS)

The restrictions in movement and closure of some businesses brought about by the pandemic affected
the economic activities of a considerable number of parents in the City. The DEPED reports that this
economic condition resulting in poverty affects the completion and cohort rates. Along this line, the
DEPED plans to conduct regular home visitation as well as grant scholarships to deserving children who
are financially disadvantaged.

The table below presents the Cohort Survival Rate which is the percentage of enrollees at the beginning
grade or year in a given school year who reached the final grade or year of the elementary/secondary
level. The indicator has registered a minimal decline in percentage for the elementary level in 2019 while
it saw a significant decrease as it is noticeably went down to 94.33%. Similar to the Completion Rate, the
Cohort survival rate registered at 80.08% for Junior High and 75.08% for Senior High School, respectively
as a result of K-12 curriculum expansion.

Table XII. Cohort Survival Rate in Public, Private, SUC Educational Institutions

SY 2017-2018 SY 2018-2019 SY 2019-2020

ELEMENTARY
Public, SUC and Private 99.35% 99.31% 94.33%
SECONDARY
Public, SUC and Private 86.72% 98.15%
* Junior High School 80.06% (JHS)
* Senior High School 75.08% (SHS)

The pandemic has had a significant impact on the state of education in the City. In terms of enrollment,
the previous school year 2019-2020 saw a decrease from the 1st semester to the 2nd semester of SY 2020-
2021, particularly in the Senior High School grade levels. It remains the same for the kinder and elementary
levels as seen in the table below. The private schools saw a decrease of 78 Senior High School students
while SUCs saw a decrease of 67 students at the same grade level. Overall, a total of 169 Senior High
School students left school as reflected in the 2nd semester numbers.

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 Table XIII. Enrollment in Public, Privates Schools and SUCs SY 2020-2021

SY 2020-2021 1ST SEMESTER SY 2020-2021 2ND SEMESTER

GRADE KINDER ELEM JHS SHS TOTAL KINDER ELEM JHS SHS TOTAL

Public 1,663 9,916 6,809 2,388 20,776 1,663 9,916 6,809 2,364 20,752

Private 283 2,584 3,210 3,202 9,279 283 2,584 3,210 3,124 9,201

SUC 29 424 458 375 1,286 29 424 458 308 1,219

TOTAL 1,975 12,924 10,477 5,965 31,341 1,975 12,924 10,477 5,796 31,172

Comparatively, the projected enrollment for the current school year 2020-2021, indicates that overall
enrollment will continue to trend down. The table below indicates that total enrollment will have
decreased by 748 learners or about 2.3%. Significantly, enrollees for Senior High students rose by 21.49% in
public schools. These indicators drive the City School Division’s efforts to successfully address the effects
of the pandemic on education in the City, especially the need for alternative modes of learning to be
made available and accessible to the learners from the public schools particularly on the kinder and
elementary level of the City.

Table XIV. Enrollment in Public, Privates Schools and SUCs SY 2021-2022

SY 2021-2022 ENROLMENT
GRADE KINDER ELEM JHS SHS TOTAL
Public 1,556 10,025 7,163 3,011 21,755
Private 271 2,243 2,621 2,518 7,653
SUC 30 374 367 217 988
TOTAL 1,857 12,642 10,151 5,746 30,396

As part of its Learning Continuity Plan, the CSD reports that it needs resources to be made available to
accommodate up to 11,967 public school students using a variety of modalities including Modular and
Blended as seen in the table below.

Table XV. SY 2020-2021 Education Modalities

NO. OF LEARNERS PER MODALITY

MODALITY ELEMENTARY SECONDARY TOTAL
Modular (Printed) Half of the learner 2,692 (1:2) 8,487
5,795 (1:2)
Blended
(Combination of Printed/ 1,445 2,035 3,480
Digitized Modular, Online and
Educational TV)
Total 7,240 4,727 11,967

To extend help and ensure continuity of learning this pandemic, the City Government distributed 40
Lenovo Tablets to Grade 5 students of Catbangen Central School on November 4, 2021. The activity is
the continuation of the annual program of the City in partnership with the DepEd to provide assistance to
underprivileged children of the city in order for them to adapt to the New Normal landscape in education.
The City is set to distribute 239 tablets to elementary and 321 for secondary public schools as part of the
programmed activities for the year 2021.

Aside from the logistical support, the city thru the Local Youth Development Council (LYDO) also adopt an
innovative self-paced learning coined as “My Study Buddy Program in partnership with the Lupon ng mga
Indibidwal na nangangalaga ng Kalikasan (LINK) which envisions to help learners by creating an avenue
where the learner and a study buddy will meet at a specified time for free tutorial or e-Learning assistance.
The LYDO through the Sanguniang Kabataan with the LINK was able to entice a 120 volunteers assisting

SOCHA 2021 25
marginal school children of the city. ‘My Study Buddy’ volunteers provide assistance to selected students
in accomplishing their study modules and other online requirements. The program was envisioned to help
Basic Education learners by facilitating the lending of gadgets at a specified time, free access to internet
connection, and most importantly free tutorial and E-Learning assistance.

In terms of the Alternative Learning System (ALS) for the year 2020, DepEd records show five (5) children
enrolled in the Basic Literacy Program, 32 children underwent Accreditation & Equivalency in Elementary
and 263 in Junior High School respectively. The City government offers continuous support to provide
opportunities for Out-of-School Youth and Adult (OSYA) learners to develop basic and functional literacy
skills, and to access equivalent pathways to complete basic education amidst the pandemic.

The City Government and the Sangguniang Kabataan established and currently administers 33
Barangay Teen Centers across the city under the local Barangay Chairperson. These are fully-
operationalized facilities located at the Barangay Hall that provide support and assistance to learners
at the barangay level. The SK Teen Center is a one-stop-shop that aims to enrich and expand the
access of youth and adolescents to improved health and well-being through a dedicated,
specialized, and accessible facility that offers a wide range of age-and development-appropriate
information, services, and programs. This provides a study space for learners where they can focus on
answering modules where they can access to learning devices such as computers, printers, internet
connectivity and books. These Teen Centers also serve as drop off point for distribution of the
students’ modules which makes it easier and more accessible for the teachers to give and collect
modules.

In line with this initiative, the City recorded a significant m ilestone for SK Teen Center I locanos S ur for
winning the Most Outstanding SK Project in the 2nd National Search for Outstanding Sangguniang
Kabataan Project Awards by the Positive Youth Development Network for Ilocanos for CY 2021. Further,
the SK Teen Center Ilocanos Sur is one of the lists of qualifiers for Luzon in the “Search for Outstanding
Illegal Drug Abuse Resistance Educational Projects” sponsored by the National Youth Commission (NYC)
in partnership with the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) under Project I DARE YOUth. The said project
aims to encourage all SK Officials, LY DOs, and Yo uth Se rving Institutions to promote th eir advocacies
in preventing illegal drug abuse for the youth through proper resistance education, community-based
projects, and policy formulation.

Leisure, recreation, and cultural/artistic activities

The City has established its own Teen Center as an initiative of the Sanggunian ng Kabataan Federation
(SK) and Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) together with various public and private sector partners
and stakeholders. It was inaugurated on August 21, 2021, and is located at 2/F Marcos Building. The
center serves as a safe space for the youth of San Fernando, providing an array of facilities which include
a conference hall, a youth desk, a music room, an e-space, and a chat hub where youth can safely hold
relevant and progressive activities despite the pandemic.

The City has also received a P14M grant from the Department of Budget and Management for the
Children’s Park upgrade, as part of their Green, Green, Green program. This initiative aims to develop the
country’s public spaces to become more livable and sustainable. Once finished, San Fernando residents
can expect to have new and better facilities in the park, including a closed gazebo and open lawn for
public use.

SOCHA 2021 26
SPECIAL PROTECTION MEASURES

Measures taken to protect the children

The CSWDO provides training on Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) for Barangay VAW
Desk Officers and barangay Secretaries. Together with the LCPC, they conduct various activities and
manage related programs including:

• Establishment, operation, and maintenance of the NASUDI center to accommodate abused and
or exploited clients who are requiring temporary shelter and psycho-social intervention.
• Intensive awareness-raising activities on the various forms of child abuse and exploitation in all
settings thru the use of symposiums, multi-media, and school curriculum.
• Conduct of regular night patrol at the City Plaza and around the Central Business District to
implement curfew and to prevent child perpetrators from approaching children in these areas at
night.
• Adoption of Child Safeguarding Protocol for the city government and external partners.

The following tables detail the annual trends in terms of the number of Child Abuse, Children in Conflict
with the Law (CICL), and Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) cases recorded in the City from
2019 - 2021.

Table XVI. No. of Child Abuse Cases in the City 2019-2021

CY 2021
CY 2019 CY 2020 Total
(as of October)
Cases 16 27 23 66

With the unprecedented stress brought about by the pandemic, the possibility of domestic violence is
increased. With children required to stay home, the recorded cases almost doubled from 16 in CY 2019 to
27 in CY 2020. It was observed that most of the perpetrators were family members including the father,
mother, uncle, step-father, and grandmothers as a result of rising health and mental issues as part of the
containment measures of COVID-19.

To ensure immediate intermediate intervention and justice, all these abused children are catered to and
their cases are managed. Thirteen (13) of these cases were referred to temporary shelter, 14 children were
rescued and 10 cases were filed in court with the assistance of the CSWDO and local police.

But with the intensified awareness campaign and continuous advocacy to the public about responsible
parenthood and mental awareness, the cases dropped considerably in CY 2021. The City strengthened the
Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPCs) with capacity-building interventions. Barangays
have become more active and responsive in assisting clients and processing cases.

Table XVII. No. of Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) in the City 2019-2021

CY 2021
CY 2019 CY 2020 Total
(as of October)
Cases 24 6 8 38
The number of CICL decrease dramatically in 2020 as a result of continuous advocacy and capacity
building for barangay duty bearers and other stakeholders in the implementation of the Juvenile Justice
Welfare Act with the Panagkikibin as the central theme of the City in terms of child protection. Barangays
were encouraged to come up with a localized Comprehensive Local Juvenile Intervention Program with
the City providing technical assistance. Since March 2020, the compliance to the National Declaration on
the Community Quarantine wherein children are not allowed to leave their residences, has been a factor
in the significant decrease in CICL. Despite the decrease recorded in 2021, initiatives are continually
undertaken by the City to reform these CICL along with their parents.

Another significant endeavor under the Panagkikibin Program Phase II is the partnership with the Don
Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) on the inclusion of Basic Defense Tactics in the
compendium of Learning and Development Program. This is to provide the CICL and CAR participants
with ways of protecting themselves with the values of self-discipline and control.
SOCHA 2021 27
 Table XVIII. No. of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) in the City 2019-2021

CY 2021
CY 2019 CY 2020 Total
(as of October)
Cases 95 90 47 232

In terms of VAWC cases, the increase in general public awareness as a result of the conduct of IECs to
barangays led to better advocacy and encouraged better services to assist VAWC clients. The improved
process of collecting official reports resulted in more cases being reported and recorded. In 2020, the City
raised the level of awareness among husband and wives and their children that being confined to their
residences projects to a possible increase in incidents. However, with the strengthened effort to make
VAWC Desks functional at the barangay level to monitor VAWC cases as well as additional intensive
training to VAWC Desk Officers, Barangays Captains, and Secretaries conducted in all barangays,
the cases considerably dropped in 2020 and continuously decreased by almost 50% in CY 2021. The
importance of organizing the BCPC and understanding the role of BCPC as a protective mechanism for
children in need of special protection are also attributed factors in the significant reduction of cases.

Children in situations of emergency including children affected by armed conflict and children victims
of natural disasters

Through the ‘Panagkikibin’ program, the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO)
conducted Traumatic and Psychological Debriefings and provide Mental and Psychological Support to
victims and affected persons including children. The City has established and maintained VAWC Desks
at the barangay level in support of the VAWC desk of the local City police. It has also established and
maintained Child-Friendly Spaces as part of its responsive evacuation management in emergency
situations and natural disasters. This is to ensure that children and pregnant and lactating mothers are
protected during disasters and other emergency situations.

Also included in this program is basic First Aid training and its importance in child protection and emergency
cases. The activity helped the participants on the salient procedures of performing the Cardiopulmonary
Resuscitation (CPR), triangular bandaging, Foreign-Body Airway Obstruction (FBAO) management, and
carrying injured individuals.

Children in conflict with the law focusing on children deprived of their liberty

The Courts use deprivation of liberty as the last resort and for the shortest appropriate time and as
much as possible avoid discrimination of children through effective diversion programs and reintegration
preparations. Hence, the following PPAs will be implemented:

• Awareness campaigns on Restorative Justice for courts, social workers, BCPCs, and other
stakeholders were conducted with the emphasis on the rehabilitation of offenders rather than on
their imprisonment.
• Strengthen diversion and intervention programs of CICL through training of social workers on
mediation, conflict resolution, anger management, and counselling for child offenders.
• Employment of a Social Welfare Officers II that is required to handle court cases as per CSC Rules.

The ‘Panagkikibin’ program includes a recollection activity meant to make CICL and CAR realize their
self-worth and dignity leading to hope for their transformation. The session tackled the importance of
self-image, self-esteem, and freedom. Self-image was discussed as the way a person thinks or perceives
him/herself while self-esteem emphasizes ways a child can boost that perception and lastly, using
freedom in a positive way.

SOCHA 2021 28
Administration of juvenile justice

Sentencing of juveniles particularly the prohibition of capital punishment

The Sangguniang Panlungsod passed a City resolution adopting and approving the Comprehensive
Local Juvenile Intervention Program (CLJIP) of the City. It also passed the ‘Adoption of the Protocol for
Case Management of Child Victims of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation’. The CSWDO is continuously
ensuring the implementation of the CLJIP. Also, children acted on with discernment filed in court were
referred to the Regional Rehabilitation Center for the Youth for rehabilitation and some were referred to
CSWDO for community rehabilitation diversion. Children below 15 who are acted on without discernment
underwent intervention provided by the CSWDO. The continued implementation and annual review of
the CLJIP are also ongoing.

Children in situations of exploitation, such as child labor, commercial sexual exploitation, trafficking,
drug abuse and other forms of exploitation

During the ‘Panagkikibin’ program, Basic Self Defense was also taught. A policewoman from the City
Police Station’s Women’s and Children’s Desk shared basic self-defense techniques with the young
participants. She also taught them how to seek help in difficult circumstances. The children were also
provided cardboard and coloring materials as part of the Scribble Soul activity during which they shared
their reflections on their artistic creations.

A discussion on Positive Disciplining and Anti-Bullying & the Cybercrime Act was also included. A social
worker from the Regional Juvenile Justice Welfare Council presented the Positive Discipline. A lawyer from
the Public Attorney’s Office presented Republic Act 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 and Pertinent
Provisions Of The Cybercrime Prevention Act Of 2012 (R.A. NO. 10175).

The ‘Panagkikibin’ program reaches children through Leadership Training & Youth Camps with discussions
on Personality Development and Social Media Etiquette for CAR and CICL children and OSY. Parenting
Seminars and Stress Debriefings were held for the parents of child-abuse children led by a psychologist
from the Lorma Medical Center. The children also participated in team-building activities to emphasize
the value of teamwork and leadership. The program seeks to build the foundation for children together
with their families to strengthen themselves against all forms of exploitation.

SOCHA 2021 29
MOVING FORWARD

As the world responds to the COVID-19 pandemic, schools have closed all physical educational facilities.
These nationwide closures have affected millions of students. The same is experienced in the City where
the children’s social, emotional and mental well-being are being affected. To sustain the efforts to build
resiliency and to recover from this pandemic, the City is geared to introduce more innovative approaches
to strengthen the mental and health awareness of the children, promote their rights and ensure protection.

• Orientation on Republic Act 10821 which will capacitate the children with the knowledge on
emergency relief and protection for children before, during, and after disasters and other
emergency situations – CDRRMO
• Provide basic oral health care to daycare children, kinder and Grade 1 pupils in public schools
• Distribution of eyeglasses to elementary pupils essential in the virtual learning experience
• Kalinga Para sa mga Bata Program
• Project Helix 3.0 for SPED and Day Care Children
• KID-DAW for SPED and Day Care Parent
• Kids Festival and Kids Arts Day
• Talent Showdown
• Reading Caravan
• Webinar Series for Children, Teachers and Guardian/Parents
• Summer Camp that develops the Leadership and Life Skills Seminar for Children
• Alay Bata: Gulayan sa Kapaligiran
• You for You – Children Trail
• Organization and training for Guidance Counselors to ensure improved social and mental well-
being
• Training, seminars, and Conventions for CCPC
• Capability building of Child representatives; child rights and child participation, awareness-raising
activities, and implementation of Kids in the Hall Program
• Children in Action Campaign Program (Children Parliament)
• Vaccination for minors aged 12-17 towards achieving her immunity
• Launching of 26 SK Teen Centers towards 100% Functional Teen Centers in the City

Moving forward, the City of San Fernando, La Union will continue to champion and nurture the State of
the Children of the City. As a People’s City, our children will always be at the heart and at the forefront
of all of our efforts to bring our public services to those who are most in need and need us the most. The
City will seek the most effective solutions and interventions through the sustainable use of innovation,
information, and technology to improve the livability of our City and most especially uplift the lives of our
people, especially our children. With these strategies in place and the partnerships it has established
with its stakeholders, the City will rise and heal as one to ensure that “Bibida ang Batang San Fernando”.

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