The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) and the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) held their first exploratory meeting on October 6, 2025, at the LRTA Board Room to discuss collaborative initiatives in promoting the welfare, protection, and safety of children, particularly in line with the upcoming National Children’s Month (NCM) celebration.

The meeting was attended by LRTA officials headed by Administrator Atty. Hernando T. Cabrera, Chairperson Ma. Rosella O. Hugo, and Vice-Chairperson Jimmy L. Chua of the LRTA Committee on Protection, Safety and Welfare of Children, together with representatives from various LRTA offices, and the CWC delegation led by Ms. Camille Lizardo of the CWC Public Affairs Division.

Atty. Cabrera welcomed the CWC representatives and shared that the creation of the LRTA Committee on Protection, Safety, and Welfare of Children was initiated in response to CWC’s earlier request for coordination and support in celebrating the National Children’s Month. He emphasized LRTA’s commitment to serving as a model agency among GOCCs and government institutions in supporting CWC’s advocacy and other child-related initiatives.

During the meeting, CWC introduced its mandate and programs through a brief presentation highlighting its role under Presidential Decree No. 603 or the Child and Youth Welfare Code. LRTA’s Corporate Planning and Research Division, represented by OIC Rosalea Mariano, also provided an overview of the agency’s mandate, mission, vision, quality and safety policies, and organizational structure.

Chairperson Hugo presented a briefer on the LRTA Committee for the Protection, Safety, and Welfare of Children, explaining its background, functions, and ongoing initiatives. She also discussed proposed programs and partnerships with CWC for 2025 and beyond.

As part of the NCM preparations, Ms. Hugo announced the formation of a small working group through a group chat to coordinate activities and address all related concerns. The committee also tackled guidelines and procedures for the processing of permits, the prescribed size of collaterals, and designated posting venues within LRTA stations.

Other topics discussed included HR-related concerns such as the wearing of blue attire every Friday in November and the recitation of the “Panatang Makabata” during flag ceremonies.

Ms. Hugo confirmed that a memorandum covering these activities had already been approved and disseminated to all LRTA employees.

Chairperson Hugo also confirmed that November 3, 2025, will be declared a Free Ride Day for children in celebration of National Children’s Month, as approved by LRTA management. Following the meeting, LRTA representatives, along with CWC delegates, conducted an ocular inspection at the revenue line to identify feasible venues for the conduct of programs and projects during the celebration.

This collaboration underscores LRTA’s strong support for the CWC’s advocacy to protect and uphold the rights and welfare of Filipino children, as the agency continues to promote a safe, inclusive, and child-friendly transport environment.