RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE. Ilonggo kids join the National Children’s Congress at Seqouia Hotel, Quezon City today, October 23, 2014 as part of the month-long observance of the Children’s Month. Recognizing the children’s rights for participation in various activities, DSWD Pantawid Pamilya National Program Management Office (NPMO) provides participants with opportunities for fun, learning and self-expression through various group workshops. Western Visayas delegates to this year’s congress are the top three winners of the Search for Exemplary Pantawid Pamilya children namely Mark Lovel Bedona of Bugasong, Antique; G.Bhe Lasala of Roxas City in Capiz; and Shane Padonio of Victorias City, Negros Occidental. Article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child states that children have the right to participate in decision-making processes that maybe relevant in their lives and to influence decisions taken in their regard—within the family, the school, or the community. The principle affirms that children are full-fledged persons who have the right to express their views in all matters affecting them and requires that those views be heard given due weight in accordance with the child’s age and maturity.