By Asst. Prof. Sarex Dalida Dipol, Jr.

Selected Panay Iraynon-Bukidnon students from Aningalan Integrated Farm School in Brgy. Aningalan, San Remigio, Antique served as the main participants of the Child Welfare and Wellness Drive.

Last November 21–22, 2025, selected faculty members of the CPU–College of Arts and Sciences conducted a Child Welfare and Wellness Drive for selected Panay Iraynon-Bukidnon students of Aningalan Integrated Farm School in Brgy. Aningalan, San Remigio, Antique. This activity was part of the College of Arts and Sciences’ 100th-year celebration, highlighting the college’s commitment to outreach and social development initiatives.

The school established Balay Darayunan, a temporary shelter for Panay Iraynon-Bukidnon students who come from far-flung areas. Instead of going home daily, the students stay at the school and return home only on weekends. However, the temporary shelter lacks essential amenities, prompting various government and non-government organizations to donate supplies to ensure the students’ comfort, safety, and well-being.

As part of this effort, the CPU–College of Arts and Sciences donated sleeping mattresses, mosquito nets, pillowcases, towels, board games, and iodized salt. Iodized salt was included because Indigenous Peoples in upland communities are more prone to iodine deficiency, which can lead to goiter. The distribution also aligns with Republic Act No. 8172, known as the “Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide (ASIN Law).” Before the turnover, a faculty member conducted a seminar on child rights and welfare for the students.

Approximately 40 Panay Iraynon-Bukidnon students participated in the activity. The outreach initiative was carried out in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development – Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (DSWD–4Ps) and the University of Antique – Main Campus. One of its key goals is to help protect these children from possible recruitment into revolutionary movements that may re-emerge in the area.