The Home for Girls (HFG) under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) marked its 27th Founding Anniversary alongside National Children’s Month with the theme “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines!”
The celebration featured meaningful activities, including a Mass, the blessing of the facility, carnival-style games, and the recitation of the Panatang Makabata, a pledge to uphold children’s rights. The event also honored individuals and organizations that have championed child protection, emphasizing the collective role of society in building a safer future for children.A highlight of the program was the inspiring testimony of “Alias Annie,” a former HFG resident and now a registered social worker. Sharing her journey, she expressed gratitude for the skills and opportunities provided during her time at HFG, which empowered her to pursue her dreams and help others.
“Sa almost pila ka months nako nga stay diri sa HFG daghan kog nakat-unan nga skills sama sa pagluto, pagbake, pagtahi uguban pa. Dako akong pasalamat sa DSWD Caraga HFG staff tungod kay nagamit nako ang life skills para maka-earn og kwarta. Dako pud akong pasalamat nga natabangan ko pinaagi sa financial assistance nga giprovide sa RRPTP (In my almost several months of stay here at HFG, I have learned many skills such as cooking, baking, sewing, and more. I am very grateful to the DSWD Caraga HFG staff because I was able to use these life skills to earn money. I am also deeply thankful for the assistance provided to me through the financial aid from RRPTP),” she said.
She emphasized the value of education to encourage residents, “Kung unsay pangandoy ninyo karon, padayon mo hantod sa makab-ot ninyo ang inyong pangandoy nga profession (Whatever your dreams are right now, keep going until you achieve your desired profession). Education is one of the most powerful weapons you can use to change the world.”
Let us come together to protect our children and ensure their right to a safe, nurturing environment. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to creating a brighter, violence-free future for every child.
