DAVAO CITY, (PNA) — Children had so much fun as they participated in activities that highlighted this year’s Children’s Month Celebration of the province of Davao del Norte at the “Bulwagan ng Lalawigan” Wednesday.
Kiddie contestants from the local government units of the province showed their artistic skills as they tried to outdo each other in the poster-making, singing and tula contest.
But what caught the attention of spectators was the participation of 4-year old Daryll Arsenal, who has ectromelia or congenital absence of all his extremities, in the poster-making contest.
Arsenal lied on the floor as he effortlessly used his forearms in drawing the board. He represented the municipality of Talaingod.
Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Arlene Semblante said the event seeks to draw public attention to the gifts of the children, as it fosters engagement in the promotion and safeguarding of their rights and development.
She added the competition also taught the kids the value of sportsmanship and how to properly interact with each other.
OIC-Gov. Victorio Suaybaguio explained that this year’s theme, “Kahirapan Wakasan, karapatan ng Bata Ipaglaban!” focused on the importance of poverty reduction efforts in advancing the rights and welfare children.
Recognizing that “children are the future,” Suaybaguio said the provincial government has taken the lead in the convergence effort to end poverty and promote youth empowerment in Davao del Norte.
He added the province has also given priority to education, as the most promising intervention that can make a difference in the life of every child.
Suaybaguio further revealed that through Governor Rodolfo del Rosario’s human-centered development thrust known as P.E.O.P.L.E., the province has strengthened policies and thrusts that seeks to realize the potentials of every child.
It can be recalled that Presidential Proclamation No. 267 declared the month of October of every year as the National Children’s Month to emphasize the importance of the role of the child within the Filipino family and in nation building.