Council approves MOA for pilot implementation of enhanced ProtectTeen program

THE 21st City Council approved proposed Ordinance No. 2025-171, authorizing Mayor Rolando A. Uy to enter into and sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for the pilot implementation of the Enhanced ProtecTEEN Program (EPP) in the city.

During the 21^st regular session, Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez explained the importance of the ordinance, noting that the initiative is anchored on Executive Order No. 141, issued on June 25, 2021, which declared the implementation of measures addressing the root causes of teenage pregnancies as a national priority, in line with Republic Act 10354, the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act.

Rodriguez highlighted the urgency of the program, citing alarming trend in adolescent pregnancy with Cagayan de Oro ranking 5th nationwide and first in Northern Mindanao.

The Enhanced ProtecTEEN Program aims to support young, unmarried mothers in caring for and raising their children. It seeks to empower them toward sustainable well-being and self-sufficiency, despite the challenges of early motherhood.

Under the program, every verified and registered adolescent mother will receive a monthly subsidy of ₱3,000 for 24 months, provided they comply with the conditions set under the agreement.

Rodriguez expressed optimism that the partnership with the DSWD will allow the city to deliver stronger, more responsive support for young mothers and help break the cycle of vulnerability among adolescents.

The MOA will be executed by the City Government of Cagayan de Oro, the DSWD Central Office represented by Undersecretary for Innovations Eduardo M. Punay, and DSWD Field Office Region 10 represented by Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen.

The program will be implemented through the Office of the City Social Welfare and Development Officer. (JDO/SP)