ZAMBOANGA CITY: The Social Watch Philippines has recognized Zamboanga Mayor Maria Isabelle 'Beng' Climaco-Salazar as a 'champion' in promoting the welfare of children, saying she prioritized the needs and welfare of the young sector during her nine-year term as local chief executive.

It also awarded the local government through the City Social Welfare and Development Office headed by Socorro Rojas, the Most Traceable Budget for Children Award during the recently concluded Capacity Building Workshop in Strengthening Public Finance Management for Children held at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.