BACOLOD City — Bacolod City has been shortlisted as one of the national finalists for the 2026 Presidential Award for Child-Friendly Municipalities and Cities (PACMC) under the Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs) category.
The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) announced that four highly urbanized cities have advanced to the national finals and will undergo validation.
Joining Bacolod in the final round are Olongapo City, Puerto Princesa City, and Quezon City.
Mayor Greg Gasataya announced Bacolod’s selection during the quarterly meeting of the City Peace and Order Council, calling for stronger, more responsive, and child-focused programs throughout the city.
Gasataya said the recognition reflects the city government’s continuing efforts to place children’s rights, safety, and welfare at the center of local governance.
Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) head Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga said Bacolod’s selection demonstrates the strong collaboration among the city government, partner agencies, and organizations in protecting children and promoting their rights.
“A child-friendly city is one that builds a better future by putting every child’s rights, safety, and well-being at the heart of governance,” Mangga said, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary and whole-of-government approach.
The PACMC recognizes local government units that have demonstrated effective policies, programs, and systems in promoting and protecting children’s rights and welfare.
The award is aligned with the Philippine government’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Among Bacolod’s child-focused initiatives are child protection centers and shelters, barangay reading corners, daycare facilities, and other community-based services.
The city government’s policies, planning, and allocation of resources for children’s programs will also be assessed as part of the national validation.
Bacolod has also strengthened measures against emerging threats to children, particularly online sexual abuse and exploitation.
Gasataya earlier issued Executive Order No. 044 establishing the Support and Action for Families in Emergency (SAFE) Hotline to help prevent and respond to cases involving online sexual abuse and exploitation of children.
As it prepares for the national validation, city officials are expected to further strengthen child-focused programs and ensure the effective implementation of existing policies and services.
The city government said the recognition is not only a milestone for Bacolod but also a challenge to sustain and improve initiatives that protect children and keep their rights and welfare a priority in local governance./PN
