ANGELES CITY (PIA) -- City government of Angeles is preparing its Bahay Pag-Asa to become a model rehabilitation and intervention center for children in conflict with the law (CICL). 

Mayor Carmelo Lazatin Jr. stressed the importance of providing an orderly place to help CICL transform and rehabilitate their lives faster and more efficiently. 

“It’s not too late for these youth to change. We just have to provide a conducive environment for them where they could have a second chance and finally be reintegrated into their families and communities," he said.

As part of making Bahay Pag-Asa a model intervention center, the city government is set to upgrade the equipment and facilities inside the center including bunk beds, kitchen, and mess hall.

An activity area will also be put up for daily sports activities and other training skills. 

Lazatin said he also requested the City Nutrition Office to prepare the meal plan for the residents of the center. 

The city government will also tap the Department of Education for the alternative learning system (ALS) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority for the training and courses of housed CICL. 

To date, 47 youth are currently housed at Bahay Pag-Asa, and is operational with house parents and social workers.

The initiative is part of the city government’s programs to secure the future and welfare of Angeleño children, especially those who are needing help. (CLJD/MJSC-PIA 3)