On 31 January 2025, the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) and UNICEF Philippines had a study tour at the Valenzuela City Child Protection Center (CPC) to gain insights into its child protection programs and initiatives. The tour was hosted by CPC Head Ms. Ma. Kristina Ramos and Social Welfare Operations Chief of Staff Ms. Dorothy Go-Evangelista, who provided an in-depth discussion on the center’s programs in the locality.

The visit aimed to promote knowledge-sharing on child protection initiatives at the LGUs. The insights gained from this study tour helped the UPOU team to inform the training modules being developed as part of its project with UNICEF Philippines on Executive Course on Child Protection specifically designed for local government leaders and social welfare officers in the Philippines.Through this initiative, UPOU aims to enhance child protection policies and equip key stakeholders with the necessary resources to safeguard children’s well-being.

The attendees included Dr. Finaflor F. Taylan (Project Leader), Dr. Augusto Rodriguez (Module Developer and Social Policy Component Leader), Dr. Maria Lourdes Jarabe (Module Developer), Ms. Maricris Cabural (UNICEF Philippines Child Protection Specialist), Asst. Prof. Lloyd Lyndel Simporios (Module Developer), Asst. Prof. Ria Valerie Cabanes (Research Associate), Ms. Dona Lyn Piamonte (Research Associate), Ms. Sydney Rovin Macahiya (Research Associate), and Ms. Eunice Laarnie Simon (Program Assistant).

CPC Head Ms. Ma. Kristina Ramos began the study tour by briefly introducing the Valenzuela City CPC and the services it offers. Ms. Ramos also shared that the CPC is a community-based facility which provides essential services to children in need. A multidisciplinary team of social workers, psychologists, medical professionals, and educators manages the facility. The center also works closely with the Municipal Trial Court (MTC) to ensure effective communication in handling child protection cases.

Ms. Ramos shared that the center prioritizes medical and psychological assessments, forensic interviews, and safety evaluations for children in crisis. It also provides shelter, foster care, and mental health support. Valenzuela City Police and social workers receive specialized training to assist abused children properly. The CPC also promotes child participation through safety lessons in schools and barangay level-youth groups to address issues like bullying. Despite challenges in accreditation, training and resources, it remains committed to protecting children in Valenzuela City.

These initiatives contributed to the attainment of various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Written by: Eunice Laarnie Simon • Edited by: Larry N. Cruz

Sustainable Development Goals

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