For 441 Indigenous Peoples (IP) children of Gacub Elementary School, Sitio Gacub, Barangay Hinapoyan, Carmen, a simple shoebox became a bundle of joy, hope, and inspiration. As part of Project BAHANDI (Bringing Aspiration and Hope As we Nurture and Develop Young Individuals), spearheaded by the Regional Council for the Welfare of Children (RCWC), chaired by DSWD Field Office Caraga, each child received a box filled with school supplies, candies, chocolates, biscuits, and toys — small treasures that brought huge smiles, November 12, 2025.

What made the gifts truly meaningful was that each shoebox was personally prepared with care and thoughtfulness by employees of DSWD Field Office Caraga, partner agencies, Association of DSWD Social Workers, Inc. (ADSWI) Caraga members, and RCWC Caraga members, turning simple items into a symbol of hope, encouragement, and shared commitment to the children’s happiness and future.

The activity, held in celebration of National Children’s Month 2025, was conducted in collaboration with partner agencies including the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

The day was made even more special with laughter, magic, and excitement. General Amante, the mascot of PNP Agusan del Norte, joined the celebration, while PNP personnel entertained the children with a magic show, creating unforgettable moments for the young beneficiaries.

Local leaders and partners were on hand to witness the joy, including Hon. Nestor S. Valeroso, Mayor of Carmen; Cherrel A. Tagyam, Principal of Gacub Elementary School; Barangay Captain Eugenio R. Yagao, and MSWDO Sharon Fe Tisang, and Jessie Catherine B. Aranas, DSWD Caraga Protective Services Division (PSD) Chief.

Project BAHANDI highlights DSWD Caraga’s commitment to the welfare, protection, and holistic development of children — especially those in Indigenous and remote communities. By putting the spotlight on the children and their smiles, the project reminds everyone that even simple acts of care can make a lasting impact on a child’s life.