Eastern Visayas: At least 76 local government units (LGUs) in Eastern Visayas have passed the 2024 Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA) for uplifting the welfare and safety of children in their areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced on Wednesday that these local governments earned the recognition after thorough deliberation by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) Board.
The CFLGA is an initiative that evaluates and honors localities committed to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for children’s growth and development. This recognition highlights the dedication of these LGUs to fostering child-friendly communities that prioritize the well-being and future of the younger generation, the DILG regional office said in a statement.
Among the passers are Baybay City, Ormoc City, Tacloban City, Alangalang, and Babatngon in Leyte province, along with Almeria, Kawayan, Cabucgayan, Culaba, and Caibiran in Biliran province. Eastern Samar sees Borongan City, Arteche, General MacArthur, Guiuan, and others recognized, while Northern Samar includes Catubig and Mondragon. Similarly, LGUs in Samar and Southern Leyte provinces have been acknowledged for their efforts.
These local governments were assessed based on a set of criteria, including child-friendly facilities in the barangay, budget allocation for children’s programs, functional local councils for children’s protection, and children’s participation in program development. Other factors included the percentage of fully immunized children, services for pregnant adolescents, early childhood care, assistance for out-of-school children, and management of special protection cases.
To pass the audit, LGUs must obtain an overall passing rate of 80 percent with specific minimum scores in categories such as Survival, Development, Protection, Participation, and Governance. The CFLGA serves as an assessment tool and mandatory audit that evaluates LGUs’ performance in implementing child-centered programs and policies.
Through the audit, the DILG in Eastern Visayas ensures that LGUs remain committed to safeguarding the welfare of children in their jurisdictions.