The Department of Health (DOH)—Ilocos Region together with the local government of Bacnotan, La Union celebrated National Safe Kids Week by advocating for more community-wide safety initiatives, including raising awareness on preventable injuries and promoting safety practices for children on June 19, 2025 at the Municipal Town Hall.
Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco said that children’s health and safety is a shared responsibility and it is about creating safer environments at home, on the road, and in public places.
“Community-wide safety initiatives involve collaboration among various stakeholders, kasama dito ang mga parents, schools, mga community organizations, at ang local na pamahalaan especially in addressing safety concerns among children and implementing preventative measures reducing harm, and promoting their overall well-being, which is important in creating a healthy and supportive environment for them,” she stated.
Sydiongco also lauded the Bacnotan LGU for its initiative in establishing the “Busel ti Bacnotan”—an Adolescent-Friendly Health Facility where adolescents can feel comfortable accessing information and services related to their health and development.
Various stakeholders attended the event, including members of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), Local Youth Development Council (LYDC), student leaders, and youth representatives from all barangays.
Various topics on the prevention of teenage pregnancy, mental health awareness, safe roads – bright futures and orientation on adolescent reproductive health, hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid.
The National Safe Kids Week Celebration is conducted in partnership with the Bacnotan Youth Development Office (BYDO) and Municipal Health Office (MHO).
Bacnotan Vice Mayor Francis Fontanilla, who represented Mayor Divina C. Fontanilla, urged students and youth councils to actively participate in advocating for a safe and healthy community and assured that Bacnotan LGU continues to promote programs and projects for the health, safety and youth development.
The National Safe Kids Week is celebrated every third week of June with the objective of raising awareness on child safety and encouraging proactive measures to ensure children’s well-being at home, in school, on the road, and online.
This year’s theme, “Maging Solusyon: Labanan ang Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children!” underscores the importance of addressing online safety threats to children. NLMonitor