DSA holds ‘Motherhood Summit’

VALUE OF MOTHERHOOD --- About 3,000 mothers participated in the “Motherhood Summit 2018” sponsored by the 6^th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and the DENR-ARMM in partnership with the local government of Datu Saudi Ampatuan. (LADY SURVIVOR QUARINDA - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)

DATU SAUDI AMPATUAN (DSA), Maguindanao --- This municipal government sees the value of guidance of mothers to children to end violent extremism, stop illegal drugs, and impart knowledge on climate change adaptation (CCA) packaged in an event called “Motherhood Summit 2018” last February 15 held at the municipal gymnasium.

Mayor Bai Anida A. Dimaukom said before a thousand participants that motherhood plays an important role to save the children from violent extremism and illegal drugs.

“Mothers are the closest to the children who are vulnerable and often marginalized individuals should be the first line of defense. Proper knowledge should be imparted to mothers so they can be of help to speak clearly about the topic and to know where to turn for support and advice,” Mayor Dimaukom said.

Mayor Dimaukom said it is the same how they combat illegal drugs.

“Definitely, good upbringing really counts. Values start at home and when the children’s values are intact, the foundation is strong and they couldn’t easily be persuaded by (negative) indoctrination,” Mayor Dimaukom added.

Kahal Kedtag, Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), emphasized the role of mothers in facing climate change.

“Mothers play an important role by properly educating their children at home. They can start by understanding the importance of protecting the environment and preserving our nature. Children should realize it at a very young age.The impacts of climate change are already being felt. Children also have a major stake in the future and a right to participate in decisions that affect them,” Secretary Kedtag said.

Lt. Col. Markton Abu represented 6^th ID commanding general Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega. Also in attendance was Department of the Interior and Local Government- ARMM Secretary Atty. Norhafizullah “Kirby” Matalam Abdullah. (GILMHAR A. LAO & ANNE ACOSTA - MINDANAO EXPOSE’)