ALMERIA, Biliran (PIA) – The local government of Almeria town in Biliran province took a bolder step to curb adolescent births in the area as it opens its Teen Center and ISDN for adolescents.
Almeria posted more than 30 cases of adolescent pregnancy in 2024, a high figure considering its 3,571 young population aging 10-19 years old according to the 2020 Census of Population.
The newly-launched Almeria Teen Center, located at the renovated former Rural Health Unity (RHU) Building, also houses the town’s public library and the various amenities of the teen center.
Teen centers established by Local Government Units (LGUs) play a crucial role in addressing the needs of adolescents and providing them with a space to grow, learn, and interact.
These centers are designed to promote youth development, offer educational and recreational activities, and help prevent risky behaviors among teenagers.
LGU Almeria opened its teen center with a formal launching ceremony marked with a signing of a Partnership Agreement between agencies and organizations which will be providing various information and services to the adolescent clientele of the teen center.
Almeria Mayor Richard Jaguros, during the launching program, said the establishment of the teen center offers new horizon for the youth and is deemed “timely” in order to address the continuing rise of adolescent pregnancy in the municipality.
He likewise lauds the ready support of partners and stakeholders who will be providing various services to the adolescents.
The Teen Center will have available counseling, skills training, values formative skills, employment services, medical and dental health and even reproductive health services.
The mayor vowed that the LGU will be actively involved in creating dedicated spaces for the teens through the newly opened teen center, which can offer safe environments where young people can engage in activities that help them develop personal and social skills.
The facilities also include recreational areas, a library, computer lab, and multipurpose rooms that can be used for a variety of activities.
Teen centers operated by LGUs are valuable resources for the youth, ensuring that they have access to a safe, supportive, and educational environment.
These centers play an essential role in developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of adulthood, and they contribute significantly to the overall development of the community. Through educational programs, recreational activities, and mentorship, LGUs are helping young people build positive futures while fostering strong, resilient communities. (ACR/PIA Eastern Visayas)