In a significant step toward promoting peace in conflict-affected communities, 21 newly constructed child development centers (CDCs) were officially turned over on Thursday (June 19) to communities in Makilala town in North Cotabato.
The turnover of the CDCs was spearheaded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the agency’s Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Program under the Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa – National Program Management Office (PDBBM-NPMO) and Field Office 12-SOCCSKSARGEN, in close coordination with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU).
Undersecretary Alan Tanjusay of the Peace and Development Group (PDG) said the project reflects the Marcos administration’s strong commitment to uplifting conflict-affected communities through sustainable, people-centered programs.
With a total project cost of Php16.8 million, the CDCs which are located across 19 barangays including Indangan, Luayon, Malabuan, New Baguio, and New Israel offer more than just learning spaces.
These centers symbolize safe zones where children aged 0 to 5 can begin their journey of growth, development, and healing, while their families, especially the mothers, gain the opportunity to pursue livelihood and stability, according to Undersecretary Tanjusay.
“Each child development center represents a future built on opportunity and inclusion. This project proves how government programs anchored in peacebuilding and community empowerment can lay the foundation for a more hopeful and united future in areas like Makilala,” the PDG undersecretary said.
Recognizing the sustained collaboration between the national government, local leaders, and grassroots communities, Undersecretary Tanjusay expressed optimism that the country can build lasting change—one child, one barangay, one peaceful future at a time.
The PDBMM is aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s commitment to achieve peace as an integral component in nation building. # (MBM)