Children and elderly are two different societal groups that define and shape the future of the community. The young will be the future leaders and movers of the society, while the elders are the guide and supporter of these coming of age.

In recognition and observance of the vital role of children and of the elderly, the City Government of Catbalogan through the City Social Welfare and Development Office, celebrates October as the National Children’s Month and the first week of the month as the Elderly Filipino Week. This year’s 17th Children’s Month Celebration is anchored on the theme: “Bright Child: Proteksyon ng Bata, Pananagutan ng Bansa!” and accordingly, the Elderly Filipino Week is carrying the theme: “Nakatatanda: Dangal at Yaman ng Bansa, Noon at Ngayon!”

Recently on October 06, the 17th Children’s Month Celebration was launched at the City Hall Lobby gathering nearly a hundred kids in colorful costumes and decorated tricycles as floats during the parade around the city. Right after the parade, a program was initiated that revealed the various activities in store for the observed celebration. As shared by Ms. Nida Aroza, City Social Welfare and Development Officer, there will be one-night-only cultural presentations on the 23rd of October for the said Children’s Month Celebration. Consequently, to further cause the protection of children as a prime concern of the City Government of Catbalogan headed by City Mayor Coefredo T. Uy, series of forum will be organized from October 14 to 30 at selected barangays in the city. (See calendar of events at the website page)

The usual observed Elderly Filipino Week has been modified to a month-long celebration better recognize the golden age and the fundamental role of our elders. On October 06, a forum has been conducted at Cocina de Cabral to discuss on the 1% Senior Citizen’s Fund of the Barangay IRA. Senior citizens from different barangays were gathered by the CSWD Office along with the City Budget Officer Ms. Adelaida Lamadrid, City Accountant Ms. Peachy Daguman with Hon. Herminia “Eday” Cabral, City Councilor and President of the Catbalogan City Federation of Senior Citizens’ Association. The guest speaker for the forum was Manpower Development Officer Mr. Ben Calzado from DSWD Regional Office that discussed on the allocation and utilization of the fund specifically for senior citizens. Furthermore, in addition to the celebration, a Senior Citizens’ Night will be conducted at the City Plaza on October 07 to give opportunities for the elderly to showcase their talents and relive fond memories in a night of fun and enjoyment.

These celebrations are aimed at giving greater attention to the needs and concerns of these two sectors of the community. City Mayor Tekwa believes that for a community to be progressive, each sector must be catered and protected while programs and projects must be responsive as well to the current trends in the society.