In a world where every child holds the promise of a better tomorrow, creating spaces that nurture growth, learning, and happiness is a responsibility we all share. The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), in collaboration with dedicated partners who share the same vision for a brighter future—Dexcom and Vriendschapsband Haarlemmermeer – Cebu—shares the gift of play and learning through new Child Development Centers (CDCs) in Barangay Buagsong, Municipality of Cordova and Barangay Jaguimit, City of naga. 

Standing as more than buildings —it is a symbol of hope and love that reflect the collective investment in the most important resource of all: our children. These CDCs aim to provide that very foundation: supportive environments where children can laugh, learn, and lay the groundwork for a life full of potential. 

During the ceremonial turnover of the CDCs to the local government units of Cordova and Naga, the entire community made a heartfelt pledge of commitment. Drawing inspiration from the belief that the vein in our ring finger connects directly to the heart, participants symbolized their promise to become champions for children by stamping their fingerprints on the Amping Chikiting commitment board. 

Buagsong: From Shifts to Permanent 

For the community of Buagsong, Cordova, the new CDC marks a powerful transformation. What once were temporary setups—classes held in a chapel and later in an abandoned home—have now found a permanent, child-friendly home. 

With the new center, over 40 children will finally have a safe and stimulating space where they can learn, explore, and grow. Barangay Captain of Buagsong, Jose Ramil Aro shared his heartfelt gratitude, calling the center a “dream come true” for their community. “This child development center was built with love,” he said. “It stands because of the compassion of organizations who believe in the power of early education, and the dedication of our LGU to support every child in Buagsong.” 

Nilda Villegas, Day Care Worker of Buagsong, also expressed her excitement and gratitude,” I am filled with great joy and a sense of relief that we can finally enter and occupy the new CDC. Our happiness is beyond words because we’ve long been waiting for this. This will help us a lot because the children will now have a proper place to stay, and we can finally do our activities properly without constantly looking for a place to hold them,” she shared. 

Jaguimit: Finally a space to Play 

Play is one of the most powerful ways children learn and grow—developing both body and mind through movement, imagination, and connection. In the new Child Development Center (CDC) in Barangay Jaguimit, City of Naga, the addition of a safe, open playground at their new location is a key moment. 

For CDC teacher Ma. Mercelyn Pesiao, the dedicated play area—something that was missing in their previous location—is what she’s most excited about. 

“Ingon ani gyud ang pangandoy namo nga ang mga bata makadula og hapsay. Dako gyud og tabang ang pagduwa sa ilang emotional ug social development […] Through play, they learn to express themselves and build confidence in interacting with others,” Pesiao expressed. 

For parents like Maricar, whose daughter Nina dreams of becoming a doctor one day, the new playground is a source of both joy and relief. 

“Sa una nga naa mi sa basement, dili gyod siya safe para sa mga bata—labi na kung naay bagyo, kusog nga ulan, or linog […] Karon, mas kampante na ko. Safe na sila sulod sa CDC, ug naa pa gyud silay playground. Malingaw gyod ang mga bata.” she shared. 

In this new space, the CDC continues its mission of nurturing young minds—not just in the classroom, but out in the open, where laughter, play, and learning come together. 

Planting the Seeds for Kinder-Ready Kids 

In both Jaguimit and Buagsong, these new centers represent a shared dream: that no child should be left behind in their formative years. These spaces will allow children to  

develop holistically—socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically—so they are well-prepared for the next stages of life. 

With this turnover, RAFI and its partners hopes to make an impact to where it matters most, in the lives of children. 

Because when we build for children, we support the future.