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| (Image Source: Batangas Provincial Public Information Office) |
“May pag-asa pa rin ang bukas sa inyo.” This is what Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto told those currently staying in the Bahay Pag-Asa Ng Batangan, the provincial government's temporary home for Children In Conflict With The Law (CICL), in Batangas City during the celebration of its tenth year anniversary last March 18, 2026 with the theme “Isang Dekada Ng Pag-Asa: Pagbabagong Buhay Para Sa Matatag Na Batang Batangan”.
The celebration began with a mass led by Rev. Fr. Noni Dolor as gratefulness and appreciation to the institution's mission of shaping and guiding youth involved in conflicts with local and national laws. Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) Department Head Etheldrida Luistro emphasized that Bahay Pag-Asa is not just a mere facility, but a catalyst of change for the youth who have lost their way and the capability to change and be given a second chance in life. Gov. Santos-Recto believed in the capabilities of those in the institution who are willing to change for the better. They need to overcome their own adversities, stand up, change and face their own unforeseeable future with pride and courage in their hearts. Santos-Recto also emphasized that the mistakes they make are not the end of their life's journey, but as part of a process towards healing and recovery. Headlining the celebration is the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Bahay Pag-Asa represented by Gov. Santos-Recto and Luistro, Canossa Academy represented by Sr. Leonor Dijan and Sr. Aurea De Vera, and De La Salle Lipa represented by College Chancellor Dr. Teodosia Merlin Suarez which aims to further strengthen their relationship and joint action in developing educational programs and shaping youth, expanding their awareness of existing social realities and encourage them to be active participants in promoting humane and meaningful change in the community.
An official turnover ceremony of the Egg-Laying Chicken Project and Fish Farming Project, led by the Batangas Provincial Agriculture Office and the Provincial Veterinary Office, also took place where the said offices provided 25 egg-laying chickens, as well as fingerlings of catfish and tilapia, to give the facility’s residents the opportunity to learn new animal husbandry skills while supporting the food supply. Among the highlights of the celebration is the anticipated testimonial of former Bahay Pag-asa resident “Derick” from Lipa City who joined the facility in 2021 and is now a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Communication Arts — proof that guidance, discipline, and a second chance can open up a better future for the youth. Mary Magsino of Balayan, Batangas, on the other hand, shared her story and expressed her heartfelt gratitude, testifying to the significant role Bahay Pag-asa played in her daughter's healing and transformation. The PSWDO, meanwhile, recognized various institutions and partner agencies that have collaborated with the agency in implementing programs for the welfare and rehabilitation of youth within the facility. Also present at the festivities were 2nd District Provincial Board Member and Provincial Council Chairperson of the Committee on Women and Family Reina Abu-Reyes, Agoncillo Mayor Atty. Cindy Reyes, department heads of the provincial capitol, and representatives of civic and private organizations, religious sector, academia, and partner agencies.
