Bacolod Takes Action Against Teen Pregnancy with Historic Summit
The City Government of Bacolod made history on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, by launching the city's first-ever Teen Summit at Ayala Malls Capitol Central. This groundbreaking initiative comes as a direct response to alarming cases of teenage pregnancy that have emerged throughout the city, prompting urgent action from local authorities.
Organized by the City Nutrition Committee–Urban Basic Services Division (UBSD) under the leadership of Lora Clarin, the summit represented a collaborative effort with Gawad Kalinga and attracted approximately 200 youth leaders, students, health advocates, and organizational partners. The event marked a significant escalation in Bacolod's campaign toward achieving Zero Teenage Pregnancy.
Alarming Statistics Drive Urgent Response
Mayor Greg Gasataya emphasized the critical timing of the summit, revealing disturbing statistics from the City Population Office. Out of 200 documented teen pregnancy cases, five involved minors between 10 and 14 years old, with the youngest being a 10-year-old girl from Barangay 7.
"We do believe this is very timely, this is very necessary, and these are urgent concerns that we have to look into," Mayor Gasataya stated during the event. "The city government is supporting all these endeavors 100 percent."
The summit saw participation from prominent city officials including Councilors Celia Flor, Em Ang, and Danna Marie Barzo; Department of Social Services and Development Head Richelle Verdeprado; and Boys and Girls Week Mayor Humphrey Miles Bayot.
Comprehensive Approach to Youth Education
Councilor Celia Flor, who chairs the City Council committee on women, gender, family, and childcare, stressed the need for more realistic and practical educational programs to address both initial and repeated cases of teen pregnancy.
"We have to start from education and awareness campaigns in schools, and even among out-of-school youth, to help them understand and raise their consciousness about their responsibilities and rights so they can make informed decisions in handling their reproductive health and sexuality," Flor explained.
The event brought together a diverse cross-section of Bacolod's youth community, including:
- Sangguniang Kabataan chairpersons
- College and high school students
- Out-of-school youth
- Local Youth Development Council members
- 4Ps beneficiaries
- Students from the 2025 Rotary Boys and Girls Week Program
Showcasing Support Services and Programs
Multiple government agencies and partner organizations presented their programs and services focused on adolescent health, youth empowerment, and responsible decision-making. Key participants included:
The SK Federation showcased youth development programs, while DSSD Bacolod highlighted social welfare services. The City Health Office conducted psychological education sessions, and the Department of Health–NIR presented their Adolescent Health and Development Program.
Other significant contributions came from the Bacolod Population and Development Office information drive, the City Mayor's Office HIV-AIDS campaign offering free HIV screening, and nutrition-focused initiatives from the Nutritionist-Dietitians Association of the Philippines–Negros Occidental and National Nutrition Council Region VI's "Nutrition for Teens" campaign.
Mark Lawrence Cruz of Gawad Kalinga expressed appreciation for Bacolod's strengthened initiatives, noting that "Bacolod is one of our most active partners. The key here is you, the youth. This is our first nationwide activity specifically addressing teenage pregnancy."
Creating Safe Spaces for Bacolod's Youth
Mayor Gasataya highlighted the city's commitment to providing safe environments for young people through the newly established Bacolod Youth Lounge at the mall.
"The reason why we have the Bacolod Youth Lounge is to provide a safe space for students in Bacolod. We believe that you are important and you play a very important role in our city. It doesn't matter where you come from or what your background is," the mayor affirmed.
Councilor Em Ang delivered an inspiring message to the youth participants: "Your voice and your actions count. I urge you to carry the lessons of today's summit. Let us build a safer, healthier, and more vibrant Bacolod City."
The timing of the summit held special significance as Mayor Gasataya celebrated his birthday on November 19, underscoring the city's dedication to providing young people with avenues for growth and responsible decision-making.
