2 in 3
Children reported to have experienced physical violence
Child protection
Children in the Philippines experience various forms of violence. Around 2 in 3 children and young people are reported to have experienced physical violence and 2 in 5 experience psychological abuse. Rates of sexual violence and peer violence are also high in the region. Children are often exposed to violence at school.
The Philippines continues to be a source, transit and destination country for commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking. It is also one of the top countries globally producing sexual digital content using children. This makes children and young people particularly vulnerable to sexual violence here.
25%
Mortality from major diseases by age 70
Health
Many adults suffer from major diseases in the Philippines. Nearly a quarter of those who are currently 30 years old are likely to die before their 70th birthday from the following: cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease.
Families affected by these major diseases are at risk. When parents fall ill or die, children are left especially vulnerable. Their schooling might be interrupted and they may lack family support in general, sometimes leading to neglect. Rates of violence and abuse are very high in the Philippines, and children and young people without support systems are particularly unprotected.
Your support makes a difference for children in Calbayog
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
Are supported in the community
80
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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These two young boys are having fun with their kite. In SOS Children’s Villages, children grow up together and often form bonds that will last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Philippines).
How your support helps in Calbayog
Strengthening vulnerable families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.