BONTOC, Mountain Province – In a showcase of youthful talent, children from the different Child Development Centers in this capital town participated in singing, declamation, and draw-and-tell contests on November 24, 2023.
This year’s National Children’s Month celebration marked a return to traditional and in-person activities after conducting online activities during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the singing contest category, Clive Jerrick Buteng from Alab Oriente Child Development Center (CDC) captivated the audience and judges with his angelic voice and graceful performance, securing First Place. Meanwhile, Cheyenne Chumawar of Sadlan CDC claimed the second place while the third place was awarded to Rhianne Pangkaway of Khefa CDC. The daycare workers behind the success of the contestants were Teresa Bangoy, Erlinda Fagyan, and Glenda Grail Dula.
In the declamation category, Ronald Cherweg of Lanao CDC emerged as the First Place followed by Jeremie Ferreros of Poblacion CDC who secured the Second Place, and Zyne Fangkingan of Sadlan CDC who claimed the Third Place. Daycare workers Rita Cherweg, Annie Khayad, and Erlinda Khayad played a crucial role in grooming these talented young speakers.
The Draw and Tell Contest showcased the artistic prowess of the participants, with Zimri Jaser Challoy of Sadlan CDC claiming the First Place and Devon Steve Khayad of Mag-eo CDC securing the Second Place. Meanwhile, Xzavier Walter Shem Awichen of Khefa CDC won Third Place. Daycare workers Erlinda Fagyan, Anneilyn Filog, and Glenda Grail Dula provided invaluable support to the participants.
Municipal Administrator Eric Fulangen, Sr., who represented Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., extended his warm welcome to the board of judges, comprising Alice Afiagan, Purita Tudlong, and Marjorie Dizon. Further, Fulangen urged the parents and guardians to be role models to their children, emphasizing the importance of protection and guidance in shaping the future of the younger generation.
In his closing remarks, Sangguniang Bayan member Glenn Bacala underscored the important role children play in the society. He reminded parents and guardians to raise awareness of the impact of technology on children and to set limitations on cellphone usage.
This year’s celebration was centered on the theme “Healthy, Nourished, Sheltered, Ensuring the Right to Life of All,” which highlights the significance of proper healthcare, nourishment, and shelter in a child’s development.
The activity was spearheaded by the Bontoc Local Government Unit (LGU) through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.
The winners of each category represented Bontoc in the provincial-level competition scheduled on November 28, 2023. Relative to this, Ronald Cherweg of Lanao Child Development Center clinches First Place in the Provincial Children’s Month Contest – Declamation Category. By Christy Mae C. Pangesfan and Aprilyn P. Tudlong
