Valenzuela City has received its 8th Galing Pook Award for its program, Safe Spaces and Safeguarding Children: Strengthening LGU-Led Community-Based Child Protection, at the awarding ceremony held at Samsung Hall, Taguig City, on October 24.

Emerging as one of the top 10 awardees from a pool of 18 finalists, Valenzuela City was recognized for its outstanding local governance program, which showcases positive outcomes, efficient program delivery, innovation, scalability, and active community engagement in protecting children.

The Valenzuela City Child Protection Center (CPC) leads the city’s child protection initiatives. Established in July 2017, the CPC is an LGU-led, community-based center staffed by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) comprising doctors, nurses, women and child protection specialists, social workers, psychometricians, and police investigators. With a holistic approach, the CPC has provided support to around 6,000 children, including those at risk and those in conflict with the law.

Through the CPC’s integrated model, children only need to recount their experiences once, reducing trauma by avoiding multiple interviews. Operating 24/7 under one roof, the MDT enhances access to justice and healing for these children, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

In the final presentation and interview, Mayor WES Gatchalian credited the success of the program to its strong partnerships with National Government Agencies, Non-Government Organizations, schools, and the community. He emphasized that protecting children today ensures a safer future for Valenzuela City.

In addition to the Galing Pook Award, Valenzuela City received a special citation in Participatory Governance for demonstrating strong community involvement. The city’s stakeholders continue to work collaboratively to create a safe haven for all children in Valenzuela.

Mayor WES was joined at the ceremony by Chief of Staff on Social Welfare Operations Dorothy Evangelista, Child Protection Center Head Kristina Ramos, Vice Mayor Lorie Natividad-Borja, and Councilors Niña Lopez, Sel Sabino-Sy, Chiqui Carreon, and Louie Nolasco, along with Mayoress Tiffany Gatchalian.

Celebrating 30 years, the Galing Pook Awards recognizes local government units with innovative programs that promote excellence in governance and transformative community impact.

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