ILOILO City – In a major step toward promoting youth welfare, the Iloilo provincial government has established over 100 teen centers across the province — an initiative aimed at addressing the growing concerns of mental health and teenage pregnancy among adolescents.
The milestone was celebrated during the Teen Center Summit 2025 held on July 31 at the Diversion 21 Hotel here, bringing together stakeholders in youth development, including local leaders, educators, school administrators, health professionals, and youth advocates.
“These teen centers are more than just buildings—they are sanctuaries for young people facing the pressures of growing up,” said Atty. Ruel Von Superio, provincial population officer. “We are united in our mission to enhance and sustain our collaborative efforts aimed at the development and empowerment of adolescents and youth through the Teen Center Program.”
As of this year, a total of 102 teen centers have been established, including 11 stand-alone facilities strategically located in the towns of Balasan, San Dionisio, San Enrique, Dueñas, Pototan, Maasin, Alimodian, Santa Barbara, Oton, and Miag-ao. Additional facilities have also been set up at Iloilo National High School.
These centers provide mental health support services, teenage pregnancy prevention programs, counselling, educational workshops, and youth-friendly recreational and developmental activities.
Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to expanding the program until all schools in the province have dedicated youth spaces.
“The Teen Center project has evolved tremendously since its inception. Its current success is a direct result of our collective efforts. It stands as a testament to the power of collaboration,” he said, recalling how the initiative began under the administration of his father, former governor Arthur Defensor Sr., with key contributions from then-Concepcion mayor Raul Banias.
The Teen Center Program was first launched in 2011 as a school-based intervention. In 2023, the project took a leap forward with the construction of Teen Center 2.0 facilities — standalone structures designed to offer more comprehensive youth services.
The summit gathered a broad range of participants including municipal mayors, Sangguniang Bayan members, local youth development officers, guidance counselors, SK Federation officials, and various program partners.
“We will continue to collaborate and converge our efforts to ensure the holistic development of our youth,” Defensor added. “Our goal is to engage all stakeholders in this mission, as the future of our province hinges on the successful development of our younger generation.”/PN
