Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 10 successfully turned over 12 Child Development Centers (CDCs) to various barangays in Manolo Fortich during a two-day ceremonial event on January 14-15, 2025. Most of the newly built and rehabilitated CDCs are located in far-flung areas, ensuring greater access to early childhood care and development services.

With a total funding of 11 million pesos, the project covered the repair of five CDCs and the construction of seven new facilities, in partnership with the local government unit (LGU) of Manolo Fortich. Implementation began in July 2024 and was successfully completed by December 2024.

The initiative is part of DSWD’s Assistance to Communities in Need program, which upholds the fundamental rights of vulnerable sectors–survival, protection, participation, and development.

To qualify for the program, LGUs must meet the following criteria:

•The beneficiaries must be children aged 3-4 years old and their families in areas where no existing CDCs are operating,

•The area must have a limited number of CDCs compared to the number of daycare-aged children or

•The area must have partially or non-functional CDCs in need of immediate repair and improvement.

LGU Manolo Fortich’s dedication to complying with the requirements paid off, securing them the project. Mayor Rogelio N. Quiño emphasized that the initiative aligns with his vision of expanding early education access to far-flung barangays.

“Ang mga bata naay katungod mangandoy. Tungod ani nga facility, atong nahatag ang basic rights sa mga bata. Tungod sab ani, masugdan nato ug matutukan ang pagdako sa mga bata para puhon, mudako sila nga tarong ug makatabang sa komunidad.” said Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen underscoring the significance of the project.

(Children have the right to dream. With this facility, we are not only fulfilling their basic rights but also laying the foundation for their growth and development. Through proper guidance and support, we can help shape them into responsible individuals who will one day contribute meaningfully to their community.)

The newly rehabilitated and constructed CDCs will also be included in the target beneficiaries of DSWD’s Supplementary Feeding Program once the LGU submits its proposed list of target CDCs. This ensures that enrolled children will have access to nutritious meals, further supporting their holistic development.

This milestone reflects DSWD’s continued commitment to strengthening early childhood care and development, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged communities. ###