TACLOBAN CITY (PIA) — Six children in Eastern Visayas celebrated a decade of life after making history as one of the 100 million symbolic babies in the country.
On July 27, 2014, 100 infants were born after midnight in state hospitals across 19 cities and 81 provinces in the country.
Some of the provinces represented in the region include Tanauan, Leyte; Borongan City, Eastern Samar; San Juan, Southern Leyte; Catarman, Northern Samar; Catbalogan City, Samar; and Tacloban City, Leyte.
The birthday celebration involved collaboration with various government agencies, each providing specific resources for the children.
The Commission on Population Development (CPD) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided each celebrant with a total of ₱15,000 cash assistance.
Other partner agencies at the event also contributed birthday cakes and gift packs.
Any of these symbolic people could be potential leaders of the country who just need to be prepared. It only shows that we need to provide them with services to ensure a better quality of life,” said Elnora R. Pulma, CPD-8 Regional Director.
Pulma clarified that after conducting yearly events for a decade, she announced that this year’s event would be the last. However, she assured continued monitoring and support for the families.
She also strongly highlighted this as a reminder to constantly pay proactive attention to promoting responsible parenthood and family planning among Filipino households.
Mellir Josh T. Tondo, one of the symbolic babies residing in Tanauan, Leyte, had a special wish granted.
He had hoped to ride a bicycle when traveling to and from school in the barangay next to theirs.
I hope you enjoy our gift to you, and I hope mas ganahan ka pa pag skwela. An akon la liwat is mag hinay ikaw pirmi,” said Melchora E. Cawile, Leyte Provincial Population Officer, upon presenting the bicycle gift.
(May you enjoy our gift, and I hope you will be more motivated and careful when going to school.) (AAC/JKPA, PIA Leyte)
