Pantawid Pamilya-Children Beneficiaries of Zamboanga Peninsula joined this year’s National Children’s Congress held in Hotel Elan, San Juan City, Manila on November 17-21, 2015.

Now on its 4th year, the said congress gathered Pantawid Pamilya Exemplary Children from all seventeen (17) regions that were conferred during the Regional Searches. The participants who have exhibited excellence in school, community  and have served as role model to their peers in their respective regions, had the opportunity to be involved in an intensive inputs and fun-filled workshops facilitated by Make Believe Foundation. This year’s NCC was anchored on the theme: “ Batang Pilipino, Tuloy ang Pagbabago!”.

The kids who represented Region IX are the following: Ann Teffany Guevarra (District VII, Zamboanga City); Sheryl Mae Regasajo (Municipality of Labason, Zamboanga del Norte) and Esel Mae Tumbale (Municipality of Talusan, Zamboanga Sibugay).  The three kids were Top 3 winners during the Zamboanga Peninsula’s search for Pantawid Pamilya Exemplary Child held last October 20-22 at Moninas, Dapitan City, Zamboanga Del Norte.

The activity capped-off with a gathering of children dubbed as “Araw ng Kabataan” led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Council for the Welfare of Children and National Youth Commission where more or less 3,000 children graced the celebration. The activity also launched the Book “Mga kwentong pambata, mula sa mga bata”, a compilation of stories written by children ages 10-14. It highlights stories that express children’s right to be involved in the Family, Community and the Society.

Artists like Robi Domingo, Season 2 the Voice Kids Finalist, Reynan Dacanla, Jairus Aquino and Upeepz Dance Crew also delighted the young crowd with their special appearances and performance.

The event also announced the National Search for Pantawid Pamilya Exemplary Children winners where a fisherman’s son from Region 8 hailed as the National Winner.

The activity is in line with the celebration of National Children’s Month every November under Republic Act 10661.