Mabalacat City Mayor Geld P. Aquino emphasized that the way a city treats its children reflects the kind of community it has, as he addressed officials during the first quarter joint meeting of the City Council for the Protection of Children (CCPC) and the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Council on March 5.

The meeting was held at the Cultural Hall of Mabalacat City College in Barangay Dolores, where city officials and stakeholders discussed key programs and initiatives aimed at strengthening services for children and youth.

Aquino said the city government continues to work toward addressing the fundamental needs of young Mabalacateños, particularly in the area of education, as part of the administration’s broader efforts to promote child welfare and development.

The mayor also cited an ordinance authored by Patricia Anne Acorda that provides incentives to local athletes from Mabalacat City who bring home medals in competitions. The measure seeks to recognize and support athletes who bring pride and honor to the city.

During the meeting, council members and officials reviewed several reports and plans related to children’s welfare, including the LCPC Annual Functionality Assessment for Fiscal Year 2026, the Annual Work and Financial Plan for Children, and the Medium-Term Development and Investment Plan for Children for 2026 to 2028.

Participants also discussed first quarter reports on the utilization of the LCPC Fund and updates on ECCD programs aimed at improving services for young children in the city.

Also present at the meeting was Marjorie Grace M. Sambo, vice chairperson of the CCPC, along with other city officials and representatives from various local government offices.