ILOILO CITY — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. called on more than 700 peer helpers and teen center coordinators to act as frontliners in addressing pressing youth mental health issues. Speaking at the 2026 Provincial Teen Center Day on September 3 at the Iloilo Convention Center, he emphasized the urgent need to manage social media exposure among young Ilonggos.
A Proactive Shift for Youth Well-Being
The annual celebration centered on the theme "Empowering Youth. Inspiring Change. Building the Future." It honored the individuals whose mentorship and leadership drive the success of the province's teen center program. The initiative signals a proactive shift toward safeguarding youth well-being and establishing structured community support against digital hazards.
Governor Defensor stressed the need to manage teenagers' exposure to social media, which poses risks to their mental health. He acknowledged the benefits of the internet while warning of its dangers. These include fake news, gambling, pornography, and bullying.
Launching PRIMETIME for Digital Safety
To address these challenges, the governor announced the upcoming launch of PRIMETIME. This program aims to establish guidelines on social media use among the youth. The provincial government will collaborate directly with the Department of Education (DepEd) to implement this initiative.
The program represents a concrete step toward protecting young Ilonggos from online harm. It provides a framework for schools to help teenagers navigate the digital landscape safely. The goal is to foster responsible social media habits and resilience against cyberbullying and misinformation.
Peer Helpers as Bridges to Hope
Governor Defensor underscored the invaluable role of peer counselors in early intervention. He described them as the nerve endings of the province's programs, bridging struggling youth to government help. Their work, he added, is vital for national development.
Provincial Population Officer Atty. Ruel Von Superio further empowered the peer helpers. He reminded them that they are not just peer helpers but peer leaders, listeners, advocates, and bridges to hope. This affirmation highlighted the depth and importance of their contribution to the community.
Teen Centers as Safe Spaces
The province has established 102 school-based teen centers, including 21 stand-alone buildings under the Teen Center 2.0 program. These spaces are designed as safe havens for guidance, mentorship, and healing. They are also spaces for friendship and where dreams begin.
The teen center program began in 2011, evolving significantly in 2023 with the construction of standalone buildings. This expansion demonstrates the provincial government's growing commitment to youth welfare. The facilities provide accessible, supportive environments for adolescents seeking help or connection.
Building a Resilient Future
The gathering was graced by National Youth Commission Chairperson Joseph Francisco "Jeff" Ortega and other key officials. Their presence signaled strong institutional support for the initiative. The collaboration between the provincial government, DepEd, and youth organizations strengthens the network of care for Ilonggo youth.
By empowering peer helpers and providing safe physical spaces, Iloilo is building a resilient future. The focus on mental health and digital safety reflects a modern understanding of youth challenges. The initiative offers families and educators a structured framework to support adolescents.
