BAGUIO CITY – The City Council approved on first reading a proposed ordinance establishing the Search for the Best Child-friendly Police Station in the city and providing the mechanics and guidelines for its implementation.
The proposed ordinance authored by Councilor Lila A. Fariñas stated that establishing the Search will empower concerned policemen to be actively involved in the implementation of child-friendly programs that serve children in the different barangays of the city.
Under the proposal, all the ten police stations of the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) will automatically be part of the annual search.
She revealed the members of the board of judges to be chosen by the Council for the Protection of Children will convene every first quarter of the year and visit all the police stations to review and rate the performance of these stations in addressing cases related to the welfare of children in accordance with set criteria.
The Women and Children Protection Desk of the BCPO shall assist all the police stations to ensure the smooth implementation of programs for children and that they are done in a child-friendly manner.
According to the proponent, there shall only be one winner in the annual search for the best child-friendly police station in the city.
The ordinance provides for a cash prize for the winner but the amount will be determined by the Council for the Protection of Children along with consolation prizes as may be allowed by the funds available for the council; certificates of recognition or commendation will also be issued to all the personnel of the winning police station.
She added all expenses relative to the search will be charged to the funds allocated for the Council for the Protection of Children and awarding of winners will be done during the culminating activity of the children’s month.
The criteria for judging will be based on the annual plan versus accomplishments – 30 percent and that bonus points any be given for accomplishments that are not included in the plan; observance of protocol in dealing with children based on the client feedback form – 20 percent; presence of child-friendly room for investigation – 15 percent; presence of separate comfort rooms for males and females – 15 percent; attendance of personnel to child-related trainings or seminars – 10 percent and presence of breastfeeding corner – 10 percent.
The local government has institutionalized the activities for the annual celebration of the National Childrens’ Month in November pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act (RA) 10661 which empowers all local government units to observe and participate in the activities and simple rites for such celebration.
It has been established in the city that every children’s month, activities are lined up to encourage the participation of children in various programs to recognize their true potentials.
By Dexter A. See
