with reports from Myra Mangampo, Project Coordinator for SAGIP
Partners from different parts of Bicol convene as Educo Philippines launches its three new projects with the common goal of advancing children’s rights and well-being in the region.
Marlon Villanueva, Educo’s newest Country Director for Philippines, is persistent in upkeeping the organization’s partnerships with different agencies as he begins his term.
“We will continue our partnership. I have no directives to change the partnerships but to strengthen it more,” he said prior to the official launching of the projects.
Upfront, SAGIP, and CLAP are Educo Philippines’ newest projects covering the organization’s three thematic areas of education, participation, and protection.
Project Upfront focuses on conducting an explorative study on the notions, perceptions, beliefs, and understanding of Filipino child well-being. It aims to gain insights into what “well-being” means from the perspective of children as rights-holders and their duty bearers. The findings will help shape future policies and programs, ensuring that the voices of children are at the forefront of discussions surrounding their welfare.
The second initiative, SAGIP 2, aims to strengthen accountability in governance to eradicate child labor in Bicol Region. This project addresses both the root causes of child labor and the immediate needs of affected children, promoting rights, and providing socio-economic support. It also emphasizes the importance of enforcing laws related to child labor, ensuring that the rights of children are upheld and protected.
Last, the Child Led Academy (CLAP), in partnership with ChildFund Philippines, introduced as a platform to empower children. This project enables children to understand policies, build networks, and mobilize their communities through effective communication and advocacy strategies. The goal is to influence positive change and promote children’s rights, welfare, and protection at the local level.
Following the presentations, the floor was opened for discussions where representatives of the different stakeholders engaged in lively conversations about the projects, sharing insights and ideas on how best to implement the initiatives within their communities. The atmosphere was charged with collaboration with everyone eager to contribute their knowledge and resources to ensure the success of these vital projects.
A highlight of the event was the ceremonial commitment signing, where all attendees pledged their commitment to the said ventures. Each participant pledged a commitment statement, symbolizing their dedication to creating a world where all children can fully enjoy their rights and live lives of dignity. This collective pledge marked a significant step forward in strengthening partnerships and fostering accountability in the ongoing fight for children’s rights in the Bicol Region.
“Educo might change its landscape in terms of prioritization but is still appreciative in implementing projects with you,” Villanueva as he ends his message.
“Let’s make every peso count to every child that [every] project is intended to,” he added.
