Ozamiz City, Philippines – The Department of Education (DepEd) Ozamiz City Division recently spearheaded the unified launching of school-based teen centers, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing the holistic needs of adolescents in the region. The event, hosted at the Ozamiz City School of Arts and Trades (OCSAT) on March 22, 2024, not only inaugurated these vital centers but also celebrated their accreditation by the Department of Health (DOH), highlighting their commitment to providing comprehensive services to the youth.
These newly established teen centers, located in Ozamiz City School of Arts and Trades (OCSAT), Pulot National High School, Montol National High School, and Marcelino C. Regis Integrated School, stand as pillars of support and empowerment for adolescents navigating the complexities of youth. Ozamiz City National High School also led this initiative last year, serving as the city’s inaugural teen center.
Attendees sign the pledge of commitment during the unified launch of the teen centers. Photo by Geri Matthew Carretero.
Each of these centers received level 1 certification during the unified launch, showcasing their dedication. With a diverse array of services, they aim to foster informed decision-making, promote well-being, and offer a nurturing environment for growth and development.
Services offered by the teen centers included Information Education through educational videos and lectures, counseling sessions facilitated by Registered Guidance Counselors and Guidance Advocates, Personality and Gender Development workshops, recreational activities, and crucial referral services for cases involving pregnant and sexually abused learners to relevant government agencies such as the City Social Welfare and Development Office, City Health Office, Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center, and the Philippine National Police – Women and Children Protection Desk.
The launch event featured a comprehensive program, including a welcome address, statements of purpose, intermission numbers, and insightful messages from esteemed individuals committed to adolescent health and empowerment.
Expressing support for this significant endeavor, Dir. Neil Adrin Omega, Regional Director of the Commission on Population and Development for Region X, remarked, “The launch of these teen centers represents a significant milestone in our commitment to nurturing the holistic development of our students. We are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where adolescents can thrive.”
“The establishment of these teen centers signifies a crucial step towards promoting the health and well-being of our adolescents. We commend the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in this endeavor and pledge our continued support,” added Arlene Via, Senior Education Program Specialist of DepEd Ozamiz City Division.
Coleen Anugon, SHE Regional Coordinator for Northern Mindanao, also echoed these sentiments, stating, “As advocates for youth empowerment, we recognize the importance of providing comprehensive support systems for adolescents. The launch of these teen centers reaffirms our commitment to nurturing the potential of our young citizens.”
A Guidance Counselor talks to the students at the OCSAT Teen Center. Photo by Geri Matthew Carretero.
The establishment of these teen centers was made possible through the support of Jhpiego, under the Sexual Health and Empowerment (SHE) project, funded by Global Affairs Canada and led by Oxfam. Jhpiego’s technical leadership in training health service providers and managers, strengthening youth-friendly and gender-responsive SRH outreach services, and promoting coordination of SRH and GBV services have been instrumental in realizing this initiative.
Beyond the launch, the DepEd Ozamiz City Division eagerly anticipates the transformative impact of these teen centers in empowering adolescents, fostering healthy behaviors, and shaping a brighter future for the youth of Ozamiz City.
About Jhpiego:
Jhpiego is a nonprofit global leader in creating and delivering transformative healthcare solutions for women and families worldwide. As an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, Jhpiego in the Philippines has worked with the Department of Health (DOH), local government, and civil society to build health providers’ skills and develop systems that save lives and guarantee healthier futures for women and their families for over 40 years.