IN THE observance of the 26th National Children’s Month, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 7 conducted the Awareness and Advocacy Walk as a kick-off activity for this month-long celebration, which started from Plaza Sugbu to Cebu Capitol Grounds last Saturday, Nov. 10.

The celebration is pursuant to Republic Act No. 10661, which declares November as the National Children’s Month with this year’s theme: “Movember to Positive Parenting” or “Isulong: Tamang Pag-aaruga Para sa Lahat ng Bata.”

The different government agencies participated in the event.

A day care parent from Barangay Talamban, Cebu City, Allain Kris Pacatan, emphasized the importance of communication with children as one of the important tools in discipline.

“Kung di ta mauwaw makig-istorya sa ubang tawo, mas angay nga di ta mauwaw sa atong kaugalingong mga anak (If we are not ashamed to talk to other people, the more we should not be ashamed to communicate with our own kids),” said Pacatan.

Lawyer Noemi Truya-Abarientos of the Children’s Legal Bureau admitted that until now she is still understanding about her children especially the teenager.

Lawyer Arvin Odron from the Commission on Human Rights talked about the rights of a child below 18 years old, which include the unborn child in a mother’s womb. “This advocacy should not end in November... as long as the children needs us,” said Odron.