Republic of the Philippines

Province of Davao del Sur

CITY OF DIGOS

OFFICE OF THE CITY SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT

NARRATIVE
Advocacy Campaign on Social Problems relative to Violence against Children and
Daily Food and Nutrient Intake

I. SITUATION OVERVIEW

On a November 15, 2023, the Child Development Workers of Digos City together
with their Parent’s Committee gathered in the City Gymnasium of Digos to launch an
advocacy campaign tackling pressing social issues: violence against women and their
children, and the critical need for proper daily food and nutrient intake for children. For
the Children’s Month Celebration 2023 with a theme “Healthy, Nourished, Sheltered:
Ensuring the Right to Life for All”, the City of Digos, thru the City Social Welfare and
Development Office conducted a two-day activity which focuses on the rights of the
children and celebrating their life and existence.

The said campaign was participated by the parent’s committee of the seventy-
seven Child Development Centers in Digos City. Moreover, the advocacy campaign for
children's rights, championed by parent committees and child development workers,
stands as a beacon of hope and progress for the most vulnerable members of society:
our children. This collaborative effort embodies a profound commitment to ensuring
that every child is afforded the fundamental rights and protections they deserve,
irrespective of circumstance or background.

II. ACTION TAKEN

The City Social Welfare and Development Office conducted an advocacy

campaign on Social Problems pertaining to Violence against Children and its resolution.
The advocacy campaign on Anti-Violence against Children was given by a resource
speaker from the Department of Social Welfare and Development Office Region XI
Ma’am Sheryl Ann Dumalogdog, RSW. She emphasizes that violence against children is
a pervasive and distressing social issue that encompasses various forms of abuse,
neglect, and exploitation. It's a violation of their fundamental rights and has far-
reaching consequences on their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. It's
crucial to create a culture that prioritizes the safety, well-being, and protection of
children. Empowering children to recognize and report abuse, along with providing
them with a supportive environment where they are heard and protected, is crucial in
eradicating violence against them.

Children, as individuals with inherent rights and dignity, deserve to grow up in an

environment free from violence. Upholding their rights is fundamental to fostering a
society that values and respects every individual. Violence against children can have
profound physical and emotional consequences that can last a lifetime. Protecting them
from harm is crucial for their holistic development and overall health. Children subjected
to violence often face barriers to education, health care, and opportunities for a fulfilling
life. Protecting their rights enables them to access these essential resources and fulfill
their potential. Protecting children from violence yields long-term benefits for society,
reducing healthcare costs, crime rates, and social disparities. Healthy and empowered
children contribute positively to the overall well-being of communities. Ensuring the
rights of children against violence isn't merely a responsibility but a commitment to
creating a world where children can flourish, feel safe, and thrive. It requires
collaborative efforts from governments, communities, families, and individuals to create
environments that prioritize the well-being and protection of every child.

After the advocacy campaign on Anti-Violence against Children, the Nutritionist

Dietician from the DSWD Region XI Supplementary Feeding Program Office, Ma’am
Emily Cabañog also conducted an advocacy campaign on Daily Food and Nutrient
Intake. An advocacy campaign focused on promoting daily nutrient intake for children is
crucial for several reasons, aiming to address malnutrition, educate caregivers, and
ensure children have access to proper nutrition. Ensuring proper daily nutrient intake
for children is vital for their growth, development, and overall health. Children require a
balanced intake of nutrients to support their rapid growth and development. Nutrients
like protein, vitamins, and minerals play crucial roles in building tissues, bones, organs,
and a strong immune system. Proper nutrition reduces the risk of various health
problems such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and deficiencies that could affect a
child's well-being both in childhood and later in life. Early exposure to a variety of
nutritious foods sets the foundation for lifelong healthy eating habits.

A well-nourished child is better equipped to handle environmental stressors, such

as pollution or other external factors that may impact their health. Ensuring children
receive proper nutrition is a collaborative effort involving parents, caregivers, educators,
healthcare providers, and communities. Educating and supporting caregivers in
providing balanced meals, promoting healthy food choices, and creating environments
conducive to nutritious eating habits are essential steps toward securing children's
health and well-being.

The advocacy campaign was not just a one-day event but a catalyst for ongoing
initiatives aimed at ensuring the rights and well-being of children. It served as a
reminder that every child deserves to grow up in a world where they are healthy,
nourished, and sheltered, where their rights are respected, and their potential is
nurtured.

PART III. PHOTO DOCUMENTATION

 Prepared by:

GRACE R. BANAL
ECCD Focal – Day Care Worker
Noted by:

ELMIE A. VIBAS, RSW, MPA

Acting City Social Welfare and Development Officer
Republic of the Philippines
Province of Davao del Sur
CITY OF DIGOS

OFFICE OF THE CITY SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT

NARRATIVE
Children’s Month Celebration 2023
November 15-16, 2023

I. SITUATION OVERVIEW

On November 15-16, 2023, parents, children, youth, and Child Development

Workers from all walks of life gathered to celebrate the culmination of Children's Month
2023, a festival that had been a testament to the theme: "Healthy, Nourished,
Sheltered: Ensuring the Right to Life for All." The celebration of Children's Month
emerges as a profound testament to the value, rights, and aspirations of our youngest
members of the community. This dedicated time reverberates with significance, serving
as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility we bear towards nurturing the
next generation. Children's Month is not merely a ritualistic observance but a vibrant
affirmation of our commitment to safeguarding the well-being and dignity of every
child. It is a time when societies pause to reflect on the fundamental rights enshrined
for children, acknowledging their inherent worth and the imperative of ensuring their
holistic development.

II. ACTION TAKEN

At its core, Children's Month embodies the spirit of advocacy and awareness. It is
a call to action, mobilizing individuals, communities, and governments to prioritize
children's rights and address the pressing issues that affect their lives. From access to
quality education and healthcare to protection from exploitation and violence, Children's
Month ignites conversations and drives efforts towards positive change.

For the first day of the celebration, November 15, 2023, the City Social Welfare
and Development Office conducted an advocacy campaign on Social Problems
pertaining to Violence against Children and its resolution. The advocacy campaign on
Anti-Violence against Children was given by a resource speaker from the Department of
Social Welfare and Development Office Region XI Ma’am Sheryl Ann Dumalogdog, RSW.
She emphasizes that violence against children is a pervasive and distressing social issue
that encompasses various forms of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. After the advocacy
campaign on Anti-Violence against Children, the Nutritionist Dietician from the DSWD
Region XI Supplementary Feeding Program Office, Ma’am Emily Cabañog also
conducted an advocacy campaign on Daily Food and Nutrient Intake. An advocacy
campaign focused on promoting daily nutrient intake for children is crucial for several
reasons, aiming to address malnutrition, educate caregivers, and ensure children have
access to proper nutrition. The advocacy campaign was not just a one-day event but a
catalyst for ongoing initiatives aimed at ensuring the rights and well-being of children.
It served as a reminder that every child deserves to grow up in a world where they are
healthy, nourished, and sheltered, where their rights are respected, and their potential
is nurtured.

The culmination of Children's Month Celebration 2023 in Digos City on November

16th was a vibrant and spirited affair, a true testament to the city's dedication to
celebrating its young residents. The day began with a colorful motorcade, a joyous
procession that included participants from all 26 barangays of Digos City. Children,
parents, local officials, and community members came together, adorning the streets
with enthusiasm and bright banners, marking the start of a day filled with festivities.
The convoy wound its way through the city, spreading cheer and excitement as it made
its way to the City Gymnasium, where the main celebration took place. The Gymnasium
was alive with energy, pulsating with music and the eager chatter of attendees. Inside,
a stage adorned with vibrant decorations awaited the commencement of the program.

During the Children's Month Celebration in Digos City, the child representatives
presenting their "Panatang Makabata" signifies a powerful and heartfelt expression of
their dedication to their community and country. The "Panatang Makabata" serves as a
reminder of the children's role in shaping the future and their commitment to upholding
values of citizenship, respect, and service to the nation. It's a beautiful moment that
highlights the importance of instilling patriotism and civic responsibility in the younger
generation. As the child representatives recited the "Panatang Makabata" during the
celebration, their voices echoed through the venue, evoking a sense of unity, pride, and
hope for a brighter future—a future where the ideals expressed in the oath are upheld
and cherished by all.

A welcome address was given by the Acting City Social Welfare and Development
Officer, Ma’am Elmie A. Vibas, RSW, MPA, giving a brief introduction of why Children’s
Month is being celebrated throughout the nation each year. She emphasizes on the role
of the role children as well as the parents in community building and Mayor Josef
Fortich Cagas took to the stage to deliver the Local State of the Children's Address,
setting the tone for the day. His words resonated with hope, emphasizing the city's
commitment to providing a nurturing environment where every child's rights are upheld
and celebrated. The program unfolded with a series of contests, showcasing the talents
and creativity of the city's children and youth. The Field Demonstration showcased
synchronized movements and colorful routines, highlighting teamwork and discipline.
The Singing Bulilit competition brought forth the melodious voices of young performers,
captivating the audience with their talent and charm. The TikTok Dance Contest added
a modern flair to the celebration, as participants grooved to catchy tunes, displaying
their dance prowess and enthusiasm. Meanwhile, the Cheers and Yells competition
reverberated through the gymnasium, echoing the unity and spirited camaraderie of the
participants.

Throughout the day, the atmosphere was filled with cheers, laughter, and
applause, fostering a sense of unity and pride among the children and the community.
The event wasn't just about competitions; it was a celebration of the vibrancy, talents,
and potential of the city's young generation. As the sun set on the day's festivities, the
closing ceremony was a moment of reflection and gratitude. The Mayor, along with
Sangguniang Panglungsod members headed by Vice Mayor Atty. Johari Baña,
expressed their appreciation to everyone who participated and contributed to making
the celebration a resounding success. Certificates and prizes were awarded to the
winners, acknowledging their achievements and dedication. As attendees dispersed,
carrying with them the memories of a day filled with joy and celebration, the spirit of
unity and support lingered in the air. The culmination of Children's Month Celebration in
Digos City served as a testament to the city's unwavering commitment to nurturing and
empowering its children, ensuring they have a voice and are celebrated as valuable
members of the community.

III. PHOTO DOCUMENTATION

 Prepared by:

GRACE R. BANAL
ECCD Focal – Day Care Worker

Noted by:

ELMIE A. VIBAS, RSW, MPA

Acting City Social Welfare and Development Officer