The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Caraga Region announced that 39 local government units (LGUs) in the area have been awarded the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance (SCFLG). This accolade is the result of the 2022 Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA) conducted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
According to Philippines News Agency, the SCFLG was conferred in recognition of the LGUs’ implementation of child-friendly programs and establishment of measures promoting children's welfare. The CFLGA is an annual nationwide assessment of the performance of cities and municipalities in implementing child-friendly policies, programs, projects, and services. The Caraga Region achieved a 53.4 percent passing rate during this assessment.
The statement highlighted that the municipality of Jabonga in Agusan del Norte achieved the highest passing rate at 97 percent. Several other LGUs in Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Sur, and Surigao del Norte were also awarded the SCFLG.
In response to the conferment, the city of Surigao released a separate statement, underscoring the city's steadfast commitment to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for children.