The symbolic babies named Rian Go of Tacloban City, Miller Josh Tondo of Tanauan in Leyte, Blair Catalea Balabis of San Juan in Southern Leyte, Sunrey Abenales of Catarman in Northern Samar, Jody Cervantes of Borongan City in Eastern Samar, and Joven Rey Arsenio of Catbalogan City in Samar were born shortly after midnight on July 27, 2014, when the Philippine population officially reached the milestone of 100 million.
Since then, the annual celebration of their birthday has become a significant event in the region.
In her message, CPD VIII Regional Director Elnora Pulma, acknowledged the importance of investing in the future of the symbolic babies and ensuring that they grow up in a society that provides them with equal opportunities and a bright future.
“This poses a challenge to all of us to give a quality of life to all children. All of us have the right to live a quality of life. We have to ensure that all Filipinos actually benefit from services that are inclusive to everyone,” Pulma said.
The celebration was also attended by different government agencies, Regional Population Executive Board, and other stakeholders.
Honorable Raissa Jaojoco Villasin, the Second District Board Member of Leyte, graced the occasion as the guest speaker.
She delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing the significance of ensuring a bright future for the symbolic babies and all children in the country.
During the event, each of the symbolic babies received a cash gift of P5,000 along with other gifts and tokens.
