The Committee on Women, Children, and Family, chaired by Board Member Rowena G. Retoma, together with Board Member Vilmer V. Viloria, conducted a committee hearing to deliberate on proposed Programs, Projects, and Activities for the Welfare of Children for Calendar Year 2026.

The discussion was led by representatives from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), namely Mr. Mac Paul V. Alariao, Ms. Rosario V. Mandac, and Mr. Jan Mark C. Telan, who presented programs and its corresponding budget that promote the protection, growth, and overall well-being of children in Cagayan.

Among the highlighted programs were the Bahay Pag-asa Center for Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL), the Special Drug Education Center, the Provincial Child Development Center, and various immunization and child health programs. These initiatives, which were part of the previous administration under then Governor and now Vice Governor Manuel N. Mamba, are now being continued and further strengthened to sustain the province’s commitment to uphold child rights and foster a safe and nurturing environment for every Cagayano child.

Likewise, in consonance with the E.G.A.Y. Governance Platform, the PSWDO also proposed additional activities such as the “For Trak ni EGAY” Project, the purchase of food commodities for the Meals on Wheels Program, and the EGAYAKAP Program, which extends assistance to vulnerable families and individuals, including persons with disabilities.

These proposed initiatives emphasize the provincial government’s holistic approach to child welfare- integrating health, education, social protection, and inclusive governance for sustainable community development.

Also present during the hearing were Mr. Lysander G. Sibal, Assistant Secretary to the Sanggunian; Atty. Ma. Bernadette S. Gevera-Martin, LLSO V; Ms. Mickey Tallud, LLSO II; Mr. James B. Moscosa and Mr. Quer Brian Urbina, representatives of the Vice Governor as ex-officio member; and other staff who assisted in the documentation and facilitation of the meeting.

-JT