In a significant achievement for child welfare, 76 local government units (LGUs) in Eastern Visayas have been recognized as child-friendly following the 2024 Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA). The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) made the announcement, celebrating the efforts of these LGUs in enhancing the safety and well-being of children within their communities.
The CFLGA, a rigorous evaluation process, assesses how well local governments are fostering environments conducive to children’s growth and development. The DILG emphasized that this recognition underscores the commitment of these LGUs to creating nurturing spaces for the younger generation.
Among the LGUs that passed the audit are notable cities and municipalities such as Baybay City, Ormoc City, and Tacloban City in Leyte; Borongan City in Eastern Samar; Catbalogan City in Samar; and Maasin City in Southern Leyte. The list also includes smaller towns across the region, showcasing a widespread dedication to child-friendly governance.
The criteria for the audit included the presence of child-friendly facilities, budget allocation for children’s programs, the functionality of local councils for child protection, and the involvement of children in the development of community initiatives. Additional metrics considered were immunization rates, prenatal and postpartum care for adolescents, early childhood care services, support for out-of-school youth, and the management of cases involving children needing special protection.
To achieve the child-friendly status, LGUs needed to score at least 80 percent overall, with specific minimum scores in categories such as Survival, Development, Protection, Participation, and Governance. The CFLGA serves not only as an annual mandatory audit but also as a crucial tool for assessing the implementation of child-centered policies and programs.
The DILG’s regional office in Eastern Visayas continues to monitor and support these LGUs, ensuring they maintain their commitment to safeguarding the welfare of children across their jurisdictions.