Conflict-affected communities in North Cotabato now have safe zones for kids with Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) child devevelopment centers.

The DSWD on Saturday said 21 newly-constructed child development centers (CDCs) were already turned over to communities in Makilala town in North Cotabato.

The DSWD said this is a significant step toward promoting peace in conflict-affected communities.

The turnover of the CDCs was spearheaded by tthe agency’s Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Program under the Peace and Development Buong Bansa Mapayapa-National Program Management Office and Field Office 12-SOCCSKSARGEN, in close coordination with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity.

Undersecretary Alan Tanjusay of the Peace and Development Group said the project reflects the Marcos administration’s strong commitment to uplifting conflict-affected communities through sustainable, people-centered programs.

With a total project cost of P16.8 million, the CDCs which are located across 19 barangays including Indangan, Luayon, Malabuan, New Baguio and New Israel offer more than just learning spaces.

These centers symbolize safe zones where children aged 0 to 5 can begin their journey of growth, development and healing, while their families, especially the mothers, gain the opportunity to pursue livelihood and stability, according to Tanjusay.