ART WORKSHOP. Young learners in Ilocos Norte province join an art workshop at the Robinsons Ilocos Mall in this file photo. DepEd Laoag City is initiating some child protection policies. (Photo by Leilanie Adriano)
LAOAG CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) here is strengthening its network and linkages with child rights advocates to ensure children are safe and free from any form of violence.
DepEd Laoag Superintendent Vilma Eda said Monday that talks are ongoing with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), Laoag City Police Office (LCPO), and various non-government organizations and advocacy groups to formulate a more comprehensive approach to child protection.
Cherry Joy Garma, a child protection policy focal person of DepEd here, reported there were at least five child victims of bullying in 2022 while there may be some other cases out there that remains unreported due to several reasons.
“Though the number of cases is not alarming yet, we want to take proactive measures so that it will not happen again,” she said.
As part of the initial efforts, Garma said the department has urged the creation of a child protection committee in all schools to enhance child protection policies.
"The committee is tasked with developing and implementing child protection policies and programs, as well as monitoring their implementation,” she added.
DepEd also recognizes the importance of involving parents and guardians in its child protection initiatives by conducting regular information campaigns and training programs to raise awareness about child protection policies and their implementation.
Capt. Winnie Julian, child protection desk officer of the Laoag City Police Office, vowed to support the department’s initiative to protect learners and prevent any form of abuse in the school and community.
As one of the 14 child-friendly local government units (LGUs) of Ilocos Norte province, the city government led by Mayor Michael Keon assured his support to sustain the good practices of being a child-friendly city.
Among the indicators used to evaluate the LGUs were child survival, development, protection, participation, and governance, as well as the LGUs' overall performance in implementing child-friendly policies, programs, projects, and services.
The audit-generated data and results will be used by all LGUs and concerned government agencies to identify strengths and opportunities to ensure and uphold children's rights concerning local governance in the country.
More three-generation (3G) parks are also being improved and established near municipal town halls and public schools in the province to encourage more children to play outdoors instead of staying indoors, hooked up to television sets and gadgets.
A 3G park refers to a communal space where children, adults and middle-aged, and seniors can come together and engage in active play or exercise in an environment that is both secure and ripe for recreation. (PNA)
