THE DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government  said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has underscored the vital role of local government units in protecting and promoting children’s welfare through programs that serve as pillars of inclusive governance.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the President recognized five LGUs that received the 2025 Presidential Award for Child-Friendly Municipalities and Cities for their strong performance in delivering child-focused services.

The awardees were Quezon City in the Highly Urbanized City category and Naga City in the Independent Component City category.

Tagaytay City won in the Component City category, while Cabagan, Isabela was recognized in the First to Third Class Municipality category.

Santo Tomas, La Union received the award in the Fourth to Sixth Class Municipality category.

Remulla said the awardees stood out among 1,091 LGUs nationwide that passed the 2025 Child-Friendly Local Governance Audit.

He noted that the winning LGUs demonstrated consistency in translating national policies into concrete local programs that directly benefit children and youth.

“These LGUs proved that protecting children’s rights can be done effectively at the community level,” Remulla said, adding that their initiatives addressed the specific needs of Filipino children.

The Presidential Award for Child-Friendly Municipalities and Cities is institutionalized under Executive Order No. 184, series of 1999.

It recognizes LGUs that meet the standards of the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance set by the Council for the Welfare of Children.

Remulla encouraged the awardees to continue strengthening safe, inclusive, and nurturing spaces for children, emphasizing that local governments remain at the frontline of ensuring young Filipinos grow in secure and supportive communities.