The childhood of Surallah, South Cotabato mayor Pedro Matinong Jr. inspired him to pursue the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Mobile Program.
Matinog shared on Wednesday, November 8, that being born in a rural area, he did not benefit from the ECCD Program.
"Kaya nung nanalo ako na mayor dito ay kinausap ko kaagad yung ating focal person sa ECCD program na tutukan ito," the mayor said during DILG sa DZRH Breaktime.
"Kung ano yung kailangan pa natin i-upgrade sa mga ganitong program ay gagawin natin," he added.
The local chief executive stressed that children, particularly in remote areas, should have the opportunity to change their lives and help their family rise from poverty.
Matinog explained that the beneficiaries of the ECCD Mobile Program consist mostly of two-years old to four years old children living in remote areas that lack a development center.
"Sila ay mga bata na nais pumunta sa mga center ngunit hirap sa buhay at malalayo ang kanilang mga lugar. Mahirap sila na maabot ng ating mga program," Matinog said.
Matinog hopes that the national government will extend assistance, including funding for the construction of additional development centers for the children, equipment, and salary for civil workers.
