ILOILO City – Fresh from its recognition as one of the country’s top child-friendly cities, the city government is ramping up programs for children with autism, with Mayor Raisa Treñas reaffirming the city’s push for inclusive governance and expanded early-intervention services.
Speaking during Monday’s flag-raising ceremony attended by members of the Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP) Iloilo Chapter, Treñas said the city’s child-friendly agenda must deliberately include children with special needs to ensure no one is excluded from public services.
“This recognition reminds us that building a child-friendly city means listening to every child and making sure no one is left behind,” the mayor said.
Treñas cited Iloilo City’s recent citation as Most Child-Friendly City, where it placed among the Top 4 finalists for 2025, as proof of sustained efforts to protect children’s welfare and promote inclusive policies.
“This is not just an award for the city government, but for every Ilonggo who believes that children — regardless of their condition — deserve care, respect, and equal opportunities,” she said, stressing that the city will continue to advance programs that empower children and their families.
Central to these efforts is the city’s newest initiative for children with special needs — the SPED Daycare Center or RiseAble Center, launched in October 2025. Treñas said the centers form part of the city’s broader Autism Campaign and are designed to provide early intervention services that help children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) become more functional and independent.
“Early intervention is very important. When we invest in our children early, we give them a better chance to grow, learn, and thrive,” she said.
The mayor emphasized that all services offered at the SPED Daycare or RiseAble Centers are free for Iloilo City residents, underscoring the city government’s commitment to making care accessible to all families. She also announced that free assessment services for children enrolled in SPED Centers will be rolled out this year.
“The welfare of our children, especially those with autism, is very close to my heart. We will continue to expand programs that support them and their families,” Treñas said, reiterating her vision of Iloilo City as a safe, inclusive, and truly child-friendly community./PN