Cavite provincial government’s efforts in institutionalizing the population program as well as those of other local government units in the province were recognized in the recent 2019 CALABARZON Regional Population Congress carrying the theme “Empowered Youth: A Key to Achieving Demographic Dividend” held on July 3-5, 2019 at The Linden Suites in Pasig City. The province was named as the Best POPDEV (Population and Development) Implementer for the Provincial Level while the local government of Rosario was the Best POPDEV Implementer for the Municipal Level. Likewise, in recognition of their Gender and Development efforts, the City of Imus received the Best GAD Implementer award for the City Level.
Likewise, former Governor Boying Remulla and incumbent Governor Jonvic Remulla both received plaques of recognition for their continuous support to the Philippine Population Management Program.
In the three-day event, population officers and workers together with other stakeholders collaborated for the sharing of experience and best practices to further strengthen population and development programs in the region.
POPCOM Region IV Director Angelito S. Obcena warmly welcomed the attendees and encouraged the partakers to actively participate in the learning sessions. He also conveyed his appreciation to the population officers and recognized their counterparts in other provinces.
Prior to the learning sessions, a ribbon-cutting on research poster exhibits was also facilitated by POPCOM officials and guests.
Focus of studies presented as well as the messages was on the youth sector. POPCOM Executive Director Juan Antonio Perez III delivered the keynote speech on the topic “Teenage Pregnancy Situation in CALABARZON” where he emphasized the importance of education and communication to properly teach the youth the advantage and disadvantage of early pregnancy.
Dr. Emolyn M. Iringan of Saint Paul University in Cagayan City presented the “Perceived Effects of Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) Interventions on the Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior (KAB) of Adolescents in Region II -Cagayan Valley. Likewise, Ms Cheryl Marie A. Malayang of POPCOM Region IV-CALABARZON explained the “Fertility Behavior Among Adolescent Mothers in Tanay, Rizal: Factors and Association with Access to Birthing Services and Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes.” An open forum was facilitated by POPCOM for issues, concerns and clarifications raised by the attendees.
Physical activities and solidarity activities highlighted the second day with the POP Zumba as early energizer for the participants. Ms. Hermie Austria, City Population Officer of the City of Imus won the POPNalong Zumbera title. Organizers also led the POPlarong Pinoy and the Bayanihan Lunch, followed by Kita-Kita, Kamustahan, Kwentuhan segment or the meet and greet activity for fellow population workers, advocates and stakeholders. Musical and Cultural Presentation per province was also held at night where Cavite placed second for their presentation.
The 2nd Quarter RPMC Meeting was held on the third day.
PGC joins in the conduct of NSED