November 29, 2025 – Mayor Shaia Ruth R. Uy delivered her first State of the Children’s Address (SOCA) at the Municipal Gymnasium, underscoring the local government’s strengthened commitment to advancing child welfare and development across the municipality.

Polanco, a first-class municipality in Zamboanga Peninsula with over 40,000 residents, continues to prioritize social services, particularly programs that support children’s health, education, and protection. 

In her address, Mayor Uy outlined key accomplishments of the local government in implementing child-focused initiatives, including improvements in access to basic education, healthcare services, and community-based youth development programs. She emphasized that these efforts are part of a broader vision of building a child-friendly, family-centered, and future-ready municipality.

“This is not just a report, but a promise to our children — that their rights, dreams, and future will always be our priority,” the Mayor highlighted.

Mayor Uy also called on key stakeholders—including educators, health workers, parents, and barangay officials—to sustain collaborative efforts in ensuring that every child in Polanco is given equal opportunity to grow and succeed.

The event gathered local officials, development partners, and community members, reflecting a whole-of-community approach to child development. It also aligns with ongoing national and local initiatives aimed at strengthening child protection systems and improving outcomes for young people.

The State of the Children Address forms part of the Local Chief Executive’s broader governance and public engagement agenda, reinforcing the municipality’s commitment to inclusive development and the protection of its youngest constituents.