The municipality of Cabagan in Isabela has earned national recognition as the 2025 Most Child-Friendly Municipality, receiving the prestigious Presidential Award for Child-Friendly Municipalities and Cities (PACFMC). The award highlights Cabagan’s exceptional dedication to safeguarding the rights and welfare of children while fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment.
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Nationwide Recognition and Collaborative Efforts
Mayor Millette Albano-Mamauag said the honor, conferred on December 22, 2025, at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, reflects the town’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive space for its young residents. Alongside members of the Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC) and barangay leaders, the mayor received the presidential trophy, a plaque of recognition, and a P500,000 financial incentive, which will fund child-focused initiatives.
Cabagan was selected from 1,091 local government units nationwide that successfully passed the Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit, earning the top spot in the first- to third-class municipality category. It joined other esteemed awardees, including Quezon City (Highly Urbanized City), Naga City (Independent Component City), Tagaytay City (Component City), and Santo Tomas, La Union (Fourth- to Sixth-Class Municipality).
The municipality’s recognition stems from programs and initiatives emphasizing child-centered governance, inclusive policies, and support for education and health services. Community engagement with parents, schools, nongovernment organizations, and local councils has been central to its success.
Albano-Mamauag credited this achievement to the combined efforts of the LCPC, Barangay CPCs, local officials, educators, partner agencies, and most importantly, the children themselves.
“They inspire us to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where they can thrive,” the mayor said. She also expressed gratitude to the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), the PACFMC Committee, DILG Region II, and DSWD Region II for their continued guidance and support.
Building a Model for Child-Friendly Governance
The PACFMC recognizes local government units that demonstrate excellence in child-centered leadership, with programs and policies designed to protect, promote, and fulfill the rights of every child. This is the first time Cabagan has received the award, cementing its position as a leader in child-friendly governance and sustainable community development.
The recognition serves as a benchmark not only for Cabagan but also for other municipalities nationwide, emphasizing the importance of child-centered policies and inclusive governance.
For locals, it ensures continued access to supportive services and safer environments, while for the country, it highlights how effective local leadership can shape a future where children thrive and communities prosper.
