2014 children's moDSWD Field Office 1 (FO1) continues to enhance effective rehabilitative activities to its clients, among which were presented by client-residents from the five (5) centers and institutions during the Children’s Month Celebration kick-off event recently held at the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY).

Graced by the Regional Committee for the Welfare of Children (RCWC) Chairperson Marcelo Nicomedes J. Castillo and members from various agencies, the kick-off event was also attended by media people from DZAG-Radyo ng Bayan, DZSO- Bombo Radyo, DZNL-Aksyon Radyo, Philippine Information Agency Region 1, and ABS-CBN Baguio.

Child representative to the RCWC Caila Jean Munar who is currently a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program also served as an inspiration to the event. Her participation to the Committee is among the innovations suggested by Focal Person Mary Grace Rendon to the RCWC.

Like regular children in the mainstreamed communities, children in the centers and institutions enjoyed games and simulation therapy activities facilitated by Dr. Mary Grace Del Castillo and Psychologist Mary Ann Dacanay.

Residents from the Home for Girls portrayed a news program exposing various exploitations and abuse of children with psychosocial interventions of DSWD highlighted at the end of their presentation. Modernized tinikling and clay pot dance were gracefully presented by residents of Haven for Women and their dependents.

The residents from Haven for Children and the RRCY performed their lyrical and jazz dances before the audience which brought more fun and excitement to the resident clients while musical bands from RRCY and Area 1 Vocational Rehabilitation Center sang songs from the current and older generations.

The meeting with the media and the RCWC Meeting revolved on the programs and services of partner agencies promoting children’s rights and welfare along survival, protection, development, and community participation as their basic rights. (by: Iryn D. Cubangbang, Information Officer II)