Mandaluyong City has received a 100% rating in the 2024 Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA) conducted by the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC). The announcement was made by CWC Undersecretary Angelo Tapales during the city’s flag-raising ceremony on December 2.
With the perfect rating, Mandaluyong will be awarded the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance (SCFLG). Mayor Benjamin Abalos attributed the recognition to the “collective efforts of Mandaluyong’s residents and stakeholders.” He also acknowledged the “contributions of city officials, parents, children’s representatives, and volunteers in advancing programs that uphold children’s rights.”
Vice Mayor Menchie Abalos highlighted the city’s ongoing initiatives focused on children’s welfare, including the BALISA (Bantayan at Alamin ang Laman ng Isip at Saloobing may Alinlangan) program, which addresses mental health concerns among the youth. She also mentioned the MAKABATA Helpline 1383, a collaboration with the CWC to improve child protection services.
Vice Mayor Abalos urged barangay leaders to enhance their Barangay Councils for the Protection of Children (BCPC) and formulate ordinances targeting child rights violations. The memorandum of understanding for the MAKABATA initiative was formalized during the December 2 event.