Guimaras Teen Centers Boosted with New Equipment

The Provincial Government of Guimaras has reinforced its commitment to youth development by equipping teen hubs and centers across the province with essential resources.

The turnover ceremony for the equipment, furniture, fixtures, and the Psychological First Aid Manual was held on Dec. 16, 2024, at the Congressional Hall in San Miguel, Jordan.

Barangay Health Workers, Barangay Nutrition Scholars, primary care facilities from the five municipalities, and the Department of Education-Guimaras received the Psychological First Aid Manual.

Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) leaders from barangays in Buenavista, Nueva Valencia, San Lorenzo, and Sibunag received conference tables and chairs to facilitate peer support group sessions.

Teen hubs in various schools were upgraded with specific resources to enhance their functionality.

• Remedios E. Vilchez National High School in San Lorenzo and Alegria National High School in Sibunag received sofas and tables.
• Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Memorial High School in San Lorenzo and Calaya National High School in Nueva Valencia were provided with electric fans, televisions, Scrabble, and chess boards.
• TVC Sta. Teresa National High School in Jordan and Getulio National High School in Buenavista received sofas, tables, cabinets, electric fans, televisions, toiletries, hygiene kits, and games for their teen hubs.

These upgrades align with the province’s youth-centered initiatives, addressing challenges such as mental health, reproductive health education, and skill-building for personal and professional development.

Dr. Fritzi Ann Suzette Dequito, head of the Department of Health (DOH) Western Visayas Center for Health Development – Health Promotion Unit, noted that Guimaras serves as the pilot area for the DOH’s mental health program initiatives.

“We are very happy that the Province of Guimaras embraced the challenge. We will provide another PHP 2.4 million for their mental health program. This is our key assistance for developing adolescents,” Dr. Dequito said.

Governor JC Rahman A. Nava emphasized the importance of harmonized initiatives for youth welfare programs under his Kabataan FIRST agenda.

“This program is timely given the mental health issues we face, especially after the pandemic, such as the increase in teenage pregnancy and suicide. Early detection is crucial. We need to harmonize initiatives like the peer support system to address these issues,” Nava said.

The governor also extended his gratitude to stakeholders, including the DOH, Department of Education, Municipal Health Offices, and youth leaders, for their support.

“With everyone’s strong cooperation, this initiative has become a reality. Let’s join hands to address the menace of mental health problems in Guimaras,” Nava added.

With upgraded facilities, the teen hubs and centers are now better equipped to deliver programs such as career coaching, peer counseling, and health awareness campaigns.

This initiative highlights the province’s dedication to fostering a safe and supportive environment for the youth of Guimaras, empowering them for a brighter future.