Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi King-Chan delivered an optimistic assessment of the city's child welfare initiatives during the 2025 State of the Children's Address held on November 27 at the Hoops Dome in Barangay Gun-ob.
Comprehensive Health and Nutrition Achievements
The mayor outlined significant progress in children's health, revealing that over 7,000 mothers received prenatal and postnatal care through city programs. The healthcare system recorded 1,927 safe deliveries at Lapu-Lapu City Hospital, while more than 1,900 newborns benefited from free newborn screening services.
Vaccination coverage reached impressive levels with over 8,000 infants completing their immunization schedules. The city's nutrition programs showed remarkable success, as 98% of children aged 6 to 59 months received vitamin and micronutrient supplements. Operation Timbang reported decreasing cases of underweight and stunting among children, while 5,934 children benefited from supplemental feeding programs at day care centers.
Protection and Education Investments
In a major support initiative for children with special needs, the city distributed P12 million in cash assistance to 2,104 children with disabilities. The local government also strengthened legal protections by updating both the Children's Code and the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) measures.
Law enforcement agencies reported rescuing 50 children from abusive situations and filing 57 cases involving abuse against minors. On the education front, Mayor Chan announced that the Special Education Fund will increase from P200 million to P300 million for 2026.
Since 2022, the city has constructed 61 new classrooms and repaired damaged school buildings. All 30 barangays now have functional Barangay Councils for the Protection of Children (BCPC) that include youth representatives.
Leadership Commitment to Children's Future
"Every child matters, every voice counts, and every dream deserves the chance to shine," Mayor Chan declared during her address. The sentiment was echoed by Congressman Junard "Ahong" Chan, who emphasized that investing in children ensures a stronger, brighter future for Lapu-Lapu City.
"We are committed to supporting programs that let every child thrive," the Congressman affirmed. The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding students, celebrating the city's commitment to nurturing young talent and potential.
