Within the walls of the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY) in Argao, Cebu, rehabilitation services are provided to children in conflict with the law (CICLs), supporting them in reformation and reintegration into society.

Operated by DSWD Field Office 7–Central Visayas, RRCY is recognized as a Level III Center of Excellence, accredited by the DSWD Standards Bureau for its consistent delivery of care and interventions.

To sustain this distinction, improve service delivery, and ensure holistic interventions for CICLs, RRCY has continually implemented strategic improvements, creating a safe and supportive environment for its residents.

In 2023, the facility underwent an infrastructure upgrade totaling ₱43 million. These improvements included installing prominent entrance signage, constructing a six-meter-high perimeter fence, and adding CCTV cameras and solar panels. Additionally, the upgrades involved repairs to the school, creating a landscaped area with a centerpiece fountain, building a new visitation lounge, and constructing a storage building.

These improvements greatly benefited the center’s functionality and security within. According to RRCY’s report, there have been no incidents of absconding since the completion of the perimeter fence in May 2024.

“We have truly seen security improvements—there have been no reported cases of absconding since the completion of the fence,” shared OIC-Center Head and Social Welfare Officer III Rhodelia Viajedor.

She emphasized that rehabilitation remains the facility’s top priority. “We always ensure that rehabilitation in all its forms remains at the core of RRCY’s mission, with various engaging activities designed to support reformation of CICLs,” she said.

Rehabilitation efforts include monthly thematic activities such as sports festivals, leadership summits, and cultural and social events, all aimed at promoting development.

Beyond these programs, RRCY is increasingly being recognized as a social laboratory—not only by local government units in Central Visayas but also by stakeholders throughout the country.

“We are proud of the developments here because other rehabilitation facilities for CICLs now look at us as a model for benchmarking innovations and best practices. They consider RRCY a valuable exposure site for training and learning,” Viajedor added.

Other completed upgrades include the renovation of the Reception and Diagnostic Center (RDC) and the Administrative Building, which now serve as functional spaces for delivering essential services to residents and partners.

A welcoming environment

To help residents maintain their connection with loved ones, RRCY has built a new visitation lounge, offering a space where families can reconnect. Immediate family members are allowed to visit twice a month.

Adding to the center’s welcoming atmosphere is the landscaped area of lush Bermuda grass and a centerpiece fountain, providing a hopeful setting that stands in contrast to the usual image of rehabilitation facilities for CICLs.

“These enhancements have created a nurturing environment that helps CICLs find peace of mind,” said Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero, who commended RRCY for its continuous improvement.

“We are proud to say that the facility has gone above and beyond to provide what’s best for the CICLs—a decent and dignified approach to rehabilitation. We also want our partners to see their investment truly make a difference here at RRCY,” Lucero said, referring to the LGU counterpart per admitted client.

She further highlighted that the vision for these developments began in 2023 under the leadership of former Center Head Aileen G. Cuevas, who is now the OIC-Assistant Regional Director for Operations of DSWD Negros Island Region.

“We want to give credit to the previous center head for initiating these improvements. These upgrades have transformed the facility, creating a safer, more comfortable, and supportive space for the children in conflict with the law,” she added.

Today, RRCY stands as a child-friendly institution that embodies the government’s commitment to restorative justice. As of July 2025, RRCY accommodates 84 resident children. ###