BANI—This town was adjudged recently as the Most Child-Friendly Municipality in Region 1 due to its continuing efforts in helping abused children and those in conflict with law.

The award was conferred to the municipality by a multi-government panel composed of the Departments of Social Welfare and Development, Health, Education, and the National Economic Development Authority.

The award was clinched by the town largely on its initiative at setting up a Child-Protection Unit (CPU) that looks after abused children and addressing their needs.

Haydee Rapivo, a nurse, oversees the operations of the CPU, a first in Region 1 and only the second throughout the country.

Initiated by the Municipal Council for the Welfare of Children (MCWC) chaired by Mayor Marcelo Navarro Jr., the CPU receives a grant from the Plan Philippines Inc., a non-government organization.

Aside from this, the body gets a share from the mayor’s development fund.

The CPU was set up by then Mayor Gabriel Navarro which was continued by his brother Marcelo Jr. when he took over the reins of the municipal government in July 2007.

Records show that CPU served 26 cases from 2005 to 2006, mostly involving sexually abused children.

There were 22 other cases listed and attended to in 2007 where some victims were from Anda, Bolinao and Alaminos City. (PNA)