"THE SURGING TEENAGE POPULATION"

     The population trend of Maragondon, Cavite is rising each year nevertheless, the teenage population comprises the greater part of the said increases in population. Below is a table showing the data of the population surge for the year 2000 to 2007.

                                       Source: National Statistics Office, 1995-2000 and 2007

       Accordingly, with the increase in teen population arises the fact that there is a greater evidence of teenagers that are of school because of financial problems. Concomitant with the increase in the population is the economic and social problems arising with it. Thus the question: is the surging teen population a blessing or a curse?

       As we see it, the increase in the number of teenagers who are unable to pursue their education does not really pose a big problem. The local government is taking measures and steps to alleviate the plight of the poor citizens of Maragondon, especially the teenagers. They launch programs in the different barangays that will focus and help the out-of- school youths. Such projects are the once under the sponsorship of the department of the Social Welfare and Development where livelihood training and seminars are conducted. Several barangays have given trainings in   basic farming, car/mechanical repair trainings, driving lessons trainings in perfume, dishwashing liquid, liquid detergent, powdered soap making and others. Initial capitals for their small scale business are also made available.  More importantly, implementation of the Alternative Learning System (ALS) designed to educate the OSY and further encourage them to go back to school so they will become better and productive individuals. These projects get their funding from the DSWD, the local, provincial and national government units. All these actions and efforts provide getter chances for these young individuals to secure for themselves better and brighter perspectives for their future.

       Active participation of the out of school youths enables them to join clubs and organizations, both from the local, provincial and national levels like the Pagasa Youth Association of the Phil's (PYAP). Hence their personality and leadership potentials are being harnessed and put to good use. Likewise the problem of dependency in drugs and alcoholism among teenagers is minimized, if not totally eradicated. However, this is a serious matter that should be given attention and much consideration. The concerted effort of the government, religious institutions, the education sector and the family unit should be geared towards the problem and it can be eradicated in the community.

          Nonetheless, all the efforts and projects being implemented by the government will not be of good use if the teenagers themselves will not appreciate and act upon the betterment of themselves as responsible individuals. No plausible projects, no seminars can change an individual. Not unless the individuals themselves desire to change and become better. Therefore, the heavy burden of commitment and purpose lies in the shoulders of all the young people. The task and mission is theirs to complete and accomplish, for them to prove themselves worthy and capable to inspire development and changes in the community where they ought to productively belong.

        Teenagers of Maragondon rise! Prove yourselves to the rest of the world! You can do it! Indeed, we can do it!