16/02/2026
2-16-2026
Successfully conducted the Adolescent Health and Development (AHD) Symposium for the Grade 7 to 10 learners of Victorias City Farm School through the strong collaborative effort of the City Health Office of Victorias (CHO), headed by Dr. Richard Garlitos; the City Social Welfare and Development Office of Victorias (CSWD), headed by Joy Reunir, RSW; the Schools Division Office of Victorias (SDO), led by Portia Mission Mallorca, PhD, CESO V; and the SK Federation of Victorias under the leadership of Trisha Mae C. Majan.
With the full support of the City Government of Victorias under the administration of Abelardo D. Bantug III, this initiative reflects a unified commitment to strengthening adolescent health education and youth empowerment.
The symposium covered essential topics such as the effects of smoking, adolescent reproductive health, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE), and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), including HIV and AIDS, encouraging informed decision-making, gender sensitivity, mental wellness, and responsible behavior among our learners.
Resource speakers included Ian Publico, RN,MN, (CHO–AHD Focal Person), Ricky P. Lapidante Jr., RSW (CSWD–AHD Focal Person), Rey Descalsota, RN, (SDO – Adolescent Reproductive Health Coordinator), and Catherine J. Loraez, RN, VCNOPCF – Health Education Program Officer Designate, who shared valuable and impactful insights during the activity.
The activity was facilitated with the assistance of Dominic Sujo P. Leagspi, RN, School Mental Health Program Coordinator.
Together, we continue to promote safe, inclusive, and informed spaces for the young people of Victorias City.