NBSC and Damilag Launch “#Nene Initiative” to Tackle Teenage Pregnancy
DAMILAG, MANOLO FORTICH, BUKIDNON – June 26, 2025 — The NBSC Pag-amuma Ginhawa Extension of Northern Bukidnon State College (NBSC) and Barangay Damilag have once again entered into an equitable collaborative initiative for community resilience and development. Building on the success of the GRIPP program, which significantly reduced recidivism among the youth involved in gang-related social disturbances, the collaborators have launched their newest initiative: The #Nene Initiative. This comprehensive, multi-sectoral, and interdisciplinary program is specifically designed to address the critical issue of teenage pregnancy within the community while simultaneously promoting gender equality and development.
The #Nene Initiative (short for #Nene: A Community-wide Teenage Focused Sexuality Initiative) represents a unified effort bringing together diverse stakeholders from Damilag to create a healthier and more supportive environment for its youth, particularly focusing on empowering both young girls and boys. The program aims to significantly reduce the incidence of teenage pregnancy through education, health awareness, and proactive community involvement, ensuring that both genders are equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions.
A recent meeting solidified this collaboration, led by Honorable Kagawad Cris Floren and SK Chair Janus Mata. Honorable Kagawad Ralph Bagayas and SK Treasurer Jhon Christian Lopez also participated. Honorable Barangay Captain Allan Cahoy also graced the gathering with his presence and group engagement. Their presence underscores a strong leadership commitment to gender-sensitive approaches within the initiative. The meeting, held at the Barangay Session Hall, Damilag, Manolo Fortich on June 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM, served as a vital forum for representatives from health, education, social services, and religious sectors of the barangay to engage in meaningful dialogue, strategizing on implementation that considers the unique challenges faced by both young women and men in the community.
During the meeting, NBSC’s Pag-amuma Ginhawa Extension presented a proposed initiative that prioritizes an inclusive and holistic yet differentiated approach to community-based CSE (Comprehensive Sexuality Education), which was met with enthusiastic and unanimous support from all attendees. The broad backing from various community sectors, including a notable full endorsement from religious groups, highlights a shared commitment to safeguarding the community’s young people and recognizing the importance of gender equality in achieving this goal.
The #Nene Initiative is a testament to the power of community collaboration. By uniting the strengths and resources of Barangay Damilag, the initiative promotes education, health awareness, and active involvement in the lives of young people—ensuring that all genders are informed, supported, and empowered.
With a focus on fostering gender equality, the #Nene Initiative is poised to significantly impact the well-being of Barangay Damilag’s next generation, creating an environment where all young people can thrive, reach their full potential, and contribute positively to their community.
by: Web Admin
