Giving paramount concern to the welfare and safety of children and providing them with a nurturing environment has always been a top priority of the provincial government.

On Thursday, September 28, in a joint meeting of the Provincial Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and their Children (PIACAT) and the Provincial Council for the Protection of Children, chaired by Governor Niño Sotero L. Uy Jr., important issues related to children’s safety and welfare were highlighted. Among them is the implementation of a referral system protocol at the barangay level for responding to reports of abuse. Addressing this, the council passed a resolution for the adoption of this protocol by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for province-wide implementation.

Also presented during the meeting was the three-year development provincial action plan for children. This plan aims to promote the welfare and protection of children in the province by addressing issues related to health, education, and social services. The action plan is expected to be a comprehensive and strategic guide that will help the provincial government provide the necessary support and services for the well-being of children in Davao Oriental.

Moreover, the council also approved the draft ordinance establishing child protection policies in the private sector in the province of Davao Oriental in the implementation of the provisions of Republic Act No. 9208 as amended by Republic Act 11862 otherwise known as the “Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022”. This is set to be endorsed to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for adoption.

Other important matters discussed during the meeting included plans and activities for the upcoming National Children’s Month celebration.

The council, headed by Governor Uy, remains committed to ensuring the well-being and protection of the children of Davao Oriental and will continue to work towards for the welfare of children.

These efforts are a testament to the council’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that the children of Davao Oriental are protected and their needs are met. Through the provincial government’s tireless work, Gov. Uy hopes to inspire others to join the shared mission to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children. PIO | Photos by JB Rain