DSWD 10 Turns Over 12 Child Development Centers in Manolo Fortich

By: Philippine Information Authority

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon (PIA) — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 10 officially turned over 12 newly built and rehabilitated Child Development Centers (CDCs) to barangays in Manolo Fortich. The ceremonial handover, which took place over two days from January 14-15, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the region’s commitment to expanding access to early childhood education and services for its most underserved communities.

These newly upgraded and newly constructed CDCs are strategically located in various barangays, with several in far-flung areas, ensuring that children in geographically isolated communities can access quality Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) services. 

 The initiative is a major step forward in addressing the gaps in early childhood education,  especially for children in areas where such services were previously limited or unavailable.  The P11 million project funded the construction of seven new CDCs and the rehabilitation of five existing centers.

The partnership between DSWD and the local government unit (LGU) of Manolo Fortich was instrumental in realizing this important undertaking. Construction began in July 2024 and was completed by December 2024, bringing these much-needed facilities to fruition in less than a year. The project is part of DSWD’s Assistance to Communities in Need program, a nationwide effort designed to support the most vulnerable sectors of society. This initiative upholds the rights of marginalized communities, focusing on survival, protection

participation, and development. Through these CDCs, DSWD aims to provide a safe and nurturing environment for young children to receive early education and developmental support. Manolo Fortich’s successful application for the project was made possible by the municipality’s commitment to meeting the criteria set by DSWD. These criteria are focused on the need for Child Development Centers in areas lacking services for children aged 3 to 4 years old or where existing centers are inadequate or in disrepair.

Mayor Rogelio N. Quiño underscored how the project aligns with his administration’s vision of expanding early education in remote barangays, providing children with access to basic services that will lay the foundation for a brighter future.