BALER, Aurora (PIA) — The provincial government of Aurora is ramping up efforts to ensure accessible and quality early childhood care, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive in his 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) to prioritize the construction and upgrading of Barangay Child Development Centers (CDCs) nationwide.
Now halfway through a province-wide assessment, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) is evaluating CDCs to guarantee that each barangay has at least one operational, safe, and standard-compliant facility serving children aged two to four.
PSWDO Head Abigaiel Paulino emphasized that the ongoing assessment is not just about compliance, but about creating nurturing environments where young children can thrive—especially in their most critical developmental years.
The assessment covers infrastructure readiness and child-friendly features such as foam flooring, safe play areas, proper sanitation, and access to age-appropriate learning tools.
Aurora currently has 211 operational CDCs, each staffed by a trained child development worker.
These centers collectively provide quality early education and care to about 6,601 children across the province.
“We are confident in the capability of our CDC workers. They undergo continuous training to ensure they are equipped and competitive in delivering early childhood care,” Paulino added.
To further extend its reach, especially in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas, the provincial government also implements Supervised Neighborhood Play.
“This community-based program is designed for children without access to formal CDCs. It ensures that children in upland and coastal communities receive the same level of care and early education,” Paulino noted.
In his fourth SONA, President Marcos announced a ₱1-billion allocation for the construction of over 300 Barangay CDCs and “Bulilit Centers” across the country.
“At ang pinaka-priority ay ‘yung mga nangangailangan na pook na malalayo. At pauna lamang ‘yan. Unti-unti nating tutugunan ang matinding kakulangan sa daycare center na nabinbin mula pa noong 1990,” the Chief Executive said.
Aurora’s efforts support the national agenda by strengthening early childhood programs that lay the groundwork for lifelong learning and development.
This aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas vision of inclusive growth that begins with ensuring equal opportunities for all children, especially in underserved communities. (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
