In a vibrant display of youthful talent, children from the Child Development Centers (CDCs) across Antique province gathered at the Binirayan Gymnasium in San Jose de Buenavista for the annual Children’s Provincial Congress. The event, held on November 28, 2024, saw participants from all 18 municipalities showcasing their skills in various competitions, including vocal solo, draw and tell, and folk dance. The young dancers from Caluya town clinched third place in the folk dance category, highlighting the event’s competitive spirit.
Carla Jee Ann Cabigunda, the focal person for the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program at the Antique Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), emphasized the congress’s role in enhancing children’s self-confidence. ‘This platform allows children to represent their municipalities and boost their self-esteem,’ she remarked during an interview following the event.
The congress also served as a celebration of National Children’s Month, themed ‘Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines.’ Jovan Cepe, the ECCD Antique Provincial Focal president, highlighted how the talent competition aligns with advocating for children’s rights, including protection and education.
In the draw and tell competition, children not only showcased their artistic abilities but also shared stories about their families, communities, and the values they’ve learned. They discussed the guidance provided by the CDCs on good manners, proper conduct, and the importance of nutritious eating, underscoring the centers’ role in their holistic development.