ANGELES CITY — Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. has ordered the complete rehabilitation of Bahay Pag-Asa to make it a model in juvenile intervention.
This was shared by Lazatin’s trusted adviser IC Calaguas, after she conducted a surprise inspection at the Bahay Pag-Asa with Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel and City Social Welfare and Development Officer Edna Duaso.
Bahay Pag-Asa, located in Barangay Sta. Teresita, is a transformation center that offers rehabilitation and intervention for children in conflict with the law (CICL), supervised by the CSWDO.
“Alam natin ang kahalagahan ng kaayusan ng kinalalagyan ng mga kabataang nalihis ng landas. Hindi pa huli ang lahat para sa mga kabataang ito na nasa murang edad pa lamang,” Lazatin said.
“We have to provide a conducive environment for them where they could have a second chance and finally be reintegrated into their families and communities,” he added.
The plan of Mayor Lazatin, according to his Chief Adviser IC Calaguas, is to upgrade the equipment and facilities inside the rehabilitation center including bunk beds, kitchen, and mess hall.
In addition, an activity area will be established for daily sports activities and other training skills. And their meal will be planned by the City Nutrition Office, Calaguas said.
Mayor Lazatin will also tap the help of the Department of Education for the alternative learning system (ALS) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority for the training and courses of housed CICL.
To date, 47 are currently housed at Bahay Pag-Asa, and is operational with house parents and social workers.
Lazatin puts emphasis on securing the future and welfare of Angeleño children, especially those in need of help.