NEWS EVENTS
(2022 - 2023)
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT & CAPACITY BUILDING
This component was designed to respond to the SNSP’s Phase 2 – more specifically, the capacity building needs of CiSS NGOs. It supports organizations in strengthening their role as service providers to CiSS through enhancing their staff members’ leadership skills. It ushers in new online learning platforms to increase learner engagement.
SNSP successfully implemented several events under this component.
Online Trainings
Webinar on Social Media Management Enhances Skills of LGU and NGO Participants
(August 15, 2024)
LifeBank Foundation and the Street Children NGO Support Project (SNS) successfully hosted an online webinar on Effective Social Media Management on August 15, 2024. The session led by Franz Remar B. Garion, Information Officer and Regional Social Media Handler from the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 6, explored key strategies for managing social media accounts effectively.
The webinar is the first for SNSP Phase 2.2. It successfully engaged participants from local government units (LGUs) in Iloilo and Cagayan de Oro, as well as representatives from 15 other organizations and institutions.
Participants learned how to strategically manage social media accounts, create compelling content, engage their audience, and build a strong online presence. Garion also highlighted the importance of understanding the unique features and user demographics of each platform.
The session included practical exercises where participants created sample posts, which Garion then reviewed, offering tailored feedback and tips for improvement. This hands-on approach helped participants apply their learning immediately, refining their social media strategies for future use.
Out of the 73 individuals who registered, 50 participants attended the webinar, with 47 signing the attendance sheet. Of the attendees, 23 completed the post-assessment, which showed a 10% increase in participants' knowledge. Notable improvements were seen in basic social media concepts such as Facebook's "Wall" feature and Mark Zuckerberg's role in the platform’s creation. However, some areas, such as Instagram user demographics, showed a slight decline in understanding.
Despite this, the feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing satisfaction with the session's clarity and depth.
Positive Feedback
The webinar received strong ratings for its content and delivery. Garion’s expertise and presentation style were particularly praised, with 92.3% of participants rating his understanding of the topic as excellent. 84.6% of attendees also appreciated the organization of the session and its time management.
The training was seen as highly relevant and useful, with 69.2% of respondents rating the content as both timely and beneficial. Moreover, 61.5% of participants expressed great confidence in applying the knowledge gained to their own social media management tasks.
The Effective Social Media Management webinar successfully equipped participants from various LGUs and NGOs with practical tools and strategies to improve their social media engagement. As these organizations continue to build their digital presence, the insights shared during the session will help them better connect with their communities.
Recommendations for Future Sessions
While the webinar was well-received, participants suggested several improvements for future sessions. Many recommended follow-up trainings, including a one-day in-depth continuation focused on social media management and follow-up training on digital media. Some also expressed preference for face-to-face workshops to overcome the challenges of online learning.
The demand for continued training is clear. With further workshops and hands-on learning opportunities, these organizations can continue to refine their social media strategies, enhancing their outreach and advocacy efforts for the sector they serve.
Webinar on Ethical Considerations in Child Participation Empowers LGUs and NGOs in Child Protection Work
(September 6, 2023)
LifeBank Foundation and the Street Children NGO Support Project (SNS) successfully hosted an online webinar on Ethical Considerations on Child Participation on September 6, 2023. The session, led by child protection expert Ms. Florinor Algo, MSW, aimed at strengthening the capacity of local government units (LGUs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working with Children in Street Situations (CiSS).
The webinar provided valuable insights on how to ethically engage children in decision-making processes and respect their rights in various program settings. It used a combination of presentations, interactive activities, group discussions, an open forum and video animation refresher, to facilitate a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Key insights and learnings
Ms. Algo guided participants through essential topics such as the Ladder of Participation, Child Protection Guidelines, and Children’s Rights, and ethical guidelines for working with children in street situations. She emphasized the importance of respecting children's voices and ensuring their protection during any engagement, while also detailing correct approaches for working with CiSS.
The participants were encouraged to reflect on their roles in promoting child welfare and protection within their respective organizations. Through open dialogue, they shared insights about the ethical dilemmas they often encounter in the field and learned effective ways to handle them. One key takeaway was the importance of respecting children’s rights while implementing programs that allow them to freely express their views and participate meaningfully in decision-making processes.
The post-session evaluation revealed a significant improvement in participants’ knowledge of child participation and ethical considerations, with an average score increase of 25.3% from pre-test to post-test.
Recommendations for future trainings
While the webinar was well-received, participants suggested several improvements for future sessions. Many called for the inclusion of more simulation activities to allow for practical, hands-on learning. Others advocated for longer, face-to-face training sessions to encourage deeper and more interactive discussions.
A key recommendation was to place more emphasis on the referral flowchart of child protection, ensuring that all stakeholders understand their roles in responding to child abuse or neglect. Participants also called for more localized examples to reflect cultural differences and the unique challenges faced by children in various communities. Additionally, the need to strengthen local child protection systems and advocate for improved child protection laws was highlighted.
Moving forward
Looking ahead, many expressed their intention to apply the knowledge gained in their work by advocating for improved child protection policies and creating opportunities for children to express themselves in decision-making processes. There were also calls for government agencies to be included in future training sessions to foster better collaboration between LGUs, NGOs, and child protection authorities.
Overall, the webinar was considered a success, with participants gaining valuable tools to better protect children and ensure their voices are heard in decisions that affect their lives. With strong demand for continued training and collaborative efforts, the webinar underscored the need for ongoing learning and cooperation to improve child protection practices across the country.
Webinar Highlights Importance of Child Protection in Emergencies
LifeBank Foundation and the Street Children NGO Support Project (SNS) successfully hosted an online webinar focused on Child Protection in Humanitarian Action. It drew 107 participants from partner organizations and local government units (LGUs). Led by child protection expert Ms. Flor Algo, the session aimed to provide attendees with essential tools for protecting children in crisis situations, especially those in street situations.
Key Learnings
The webinar covered a wide range of topics, including the impact of emergency situations on children’s safety, key child protection issues in such contexts, and the role of local authorities and national government agencies in ensuring the protection of children.
The session delved into the urgent need for child protection during emergencies, particularly for children in street situations. Attendees had deep discussions on the Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection Act (RA 10821) and Child Protection in Humanitarian Action (CPHA), which are crucial for mitigating trauma and saving lives.
Another key takeaway for participants was the importance of having a comprehensive, established child protection system in place during emergencies. Ms. Algo highlighted the vital role of local systems, outlining legal frameworks and standards for CPHA, and emphasized the shared responsibilities of local and national governments in child protection.
The session also featured a case study of "Nene," a 10-year-old girl victimized by abuse and exploitation. Her tragic story highlighted the critical roles of local authorities and other duty-bearers in protecting vulnerable children in crisis situations.
Evaluation and Impact
The webinar drew a diverse audience, majority of whom were newly elected barangay officials from Iloilo City. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with most attendees reporting an increase in their knowledge of child protection practices during emergencies. Many participants expressed a deeper understanding of the importance of child protection in emergencies.
Looking ahead, many emphasized the need for more training sessions to further enhance LGUs' and NGOs' capacity to respond to child protection challenges in emergency situations. There was also a call for additional resources and tools to help local governments implement child protection systems effectively.
Training Needs Assessment
SNSP continues its mission to uplift Children in Street Situations (CiSS) through a robust capacity-building initiative under Phase 2 of its program for its partner CiSS NGOS.
The Leadership Development and Capacity Building (LDCB) component equips CiSS NGO staff with enhanced leadership skills and introduces innovative online learning platforms to boost engagement.
In order to do this, a Training Needs Assessment was done in 2022 for an evidence-based capacity building for the network.
A pre-training survey in 2022 provided valuable insights into the target participants. Respondents, averaging 38 years old and representing 15 organizations, included a diverse mix of social workers (26.67%), project coordinators (16.67%), community organizers (13.33%), teachers (10%), and others in administrative and leadership roles. The youngest respondent was 23 years old, while the oldest was 64, with 43.30% aged 40 or older.
When it came to learning priorities, Organizational Development topped the list with 20 votes, followed by Resource Mobilization (19 votes), Spirituality and Social Development (18 votes), Child Growth and Development (17 votes), and The Theory of Change (16 votes). Respondents emphasized the relevance of these topics to their current roles and the need to adapt to rapidly changing organizational and client contexts.
Given the transition from the pandemic then, webinars emerged as the most preferred training mode, with 66.67% opting for this format. Blended sessions garnered 60% preference, while only 43.33% chose face-to-face sessions, reflecting a growing inclination toward flexible learning environments.
With these insights, SNSP successfully rolled out key Leadership Development and Capacity Building events, reaffirming its commitment to empowering CiSS service providers nationwide.
Communication, Research, and Public Advocacy on CiSS
This component focuses on providing a platform for communicating and raising public awareness on who the Children in Street Situations (CiSS) are and their issues. The goal is to influence plans, programs, and policies impacting CiSS. CiSS non-government organizations (NGOs) work together in creating and implementing activities directed at strengthening public action on CiSS issues.
After Extensive Consultation, SNSP approves 4-Part CiSS Video Series
SNSP, in collaboration with the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) and its Sub-Committee for the Protection and Welfare of Children in Street Situations successfully developed and refined a 4-part video animation series to enhance awareness and understanding of Children in Street Situations (CiSS).
This milestone, the first of its kind for the national advocacy, was achieved through an inclusive and meticulous consultation process.
Collaborative Development and Pre-Testing
The video animation series underwent multiple revisions, informed by feedback from a diverse group of stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, regional coordinators, and youth representatives.
Pre-testing sessions were held at local, regional, and national levels, ensuring the material was politically correct, sensitive, and inclusive.
From July 2022 to May 2023, several versions of the Video Discussion Guide were created before its final rollout.
Refining the Video Series
Following a National Training of Trainers (NTOT) in May 2023, national participants identified key areas for improvement.
SNSP engaged animators to re-edit the video series, focusing on character reanimation, voiceovers, and pacing adjustments. The re-editing process lasted four months and concluded in October 2023, resulting in a polished and engaging series.
Impactful Rollout and Training
The NTOT participants implemented training plans across Mindanao and Visayas, engaging 1,052 individuals.
In March 2024, Childhope conducted a training for 27 barangay officers in Manila, guiding them in drafting plans for CiSS initiatives. A holistic, multi-sectoral approach was also introduced in Manila City to address the welfare of street children through collaboration among social services, local government units, and NGOs.
With the video series now finalized, SNSP continues to lead efforts in building understanding and driving actionable change for CiSS across the nation.
SNSP Transforms CiSS Video Series into Comprehensive Training Modules through Stakeholder Collaboration
SNSP’s initiative to create a comprehensive module for facilitators of Children in Street Situations (CiSS) has successfully progressed through multiple consultations, ensuring a collaborative and inclusive development process.
Region 6 Consultation
The first consultation, held in January 2022 in Region 6, gathered stakeholders from local government units (LGUs), government agencies (GAs), NGOs, and the academe.
Facilitated by experts from DWSD 6 Field Office and NGOs, SNSP, and CORE Philippines, the session provided key insights to shape the module’s content. Dr. Stephanie M. Sison, an expert in module development, was consulted to guide the process, ensuring the module would be effective and relevant.
Region 10 Consultation
The second consultation in Region 10, also in January 2022, followed a similar format, with DSWD Region 10 and the Local Council for the Protection of Children Region 10, and youth organizations from Cagayan de Oro City sharing their input.
NCR Consultation
This was followed by a March 2022 consultation in NCR hosted by Luzon and Visayas stakeholders and youth from Regions 10, 6, and NCR. It brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to further refine the content.
NTOT Consultation
The fourth and final consultation, conducted during the National Training of Trainers (NTOT) in May 2023, marked the culmination of the consultation process.
The NTOT session, which included NCR organizations, youth, CWC and their Regional Coordinators and DSWD Field offices from FO 6, 10, Zamboanga, NCR, Region 4A, Region 7, and Davao Region, focused on deepening the understanding of CiSS through video discussions and the localization of the Philippines’ Strategic Multi-Stakeholder Plan for CiSS.
The event strengthened partnerships among government agencies and NGOs, fostering collaboration on strategies to address the stigma surrounding children in street situations.
Through these consultations, SNSP successfully developed the written modules, transforming the 4-part video series into a valuable resource for CiSS facilitators.
The modules are now set to empower facilitators in delivering impactful, informed, and sensitive training to address the needs of vulnerable children on the streets.
International Day of Children in Street Situations (CiSS) Celebrated in Online and Offline, Nationwide
The International Day of Children in Street Situations (CiSS) was marked with a series of online and in-person celebrations in 2023, bringing attention to the challenges faced by children living and working on the streets. The Street Children NGO Support Project (SNSP) played a key role in the preparation and execution of the events in Visayas and Mindanao, with a resource speaker from the project providing valuable insights on child protection in street situations.
Online and In-Person Celebrations Raise Awareness
The April 12 online event, organized by the Council for the Welfare of Children’s (CWC) Sub-Committee on the Protection and Welfare of Children in Street Situations (SCPWCiSS), served as a precursor to local celebrations, gaining significant online engagement with 3,400 views, 186 likes, and 93 shares on CWC’s Facebook page.
On the same day, Childhope Philippines Foundation, Inc. also marked the occasion by gathering 150 children in street situations across different areas of Manila, including Ermita, Lawton, and Divisoria. This was part of an advocacy campaign to raise awareness about the plight of street children and highlight the urgent need for collective action to improve the lives of children in street situations.
Iloilo City Hosts Successful In-Person Celebration
On June 19, 2023, SNSP in collaboration with the Iloilo City Task Force on Street Children and the Iloilo City Council for the Protection of Children mounted a vibrant local event in Iloilo City.
Iloilo City’s in-person celebration, held at the Jaro Gym in Jaro Plaza, attracted 400 participants from across seven districts of the city.
Chaired by Mrs. Rosalie Trenas, the event included screenings of the CiSS video animations, which highlighted the stories of children in street situations, interspersed with group games and talent contests showcasing the abilities of local children. Success stories from CiSS scholars were also shared, motivating attendees to value education as a means to improve their lives.
Participants learned about the importance of community involvement in addressing the needs of children in street situations. The event also emphasized the role of local government units in providing support, protection, and opportunities for these children.
Nationwide Observance Expands Reach
In addition to Iloilo, the International Day for CiSS was observed in other highly urbanized cities, including Zamboanga, Davao City, and Cagayan de Oro City. Each location hosted its own events to raise awareness and promote action for street children.
Network Building and Strengthening
This project component puts a spotlight on creating and nurturing healthy, effective relationships among non-government organizations (NGOs) working on Children in Street Situations (CiSS) and Local Government Unit (LGU) implementers in Visayas and Mindanao. Network partners/members are encouraged to collaborate at the regional, provincial or city and municipal level – whichever would be most applicable and fruitful for them.
Regional meetings kept the partners/members abreast of each other’s progress and renewed their commitment to the advocacy. A Theory of Change (TOC) serves as a roadmap that keeps the network aligned while working towards its long-term goal. Progress markers, outcome mapping, and Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) help in tracking changes, progress, and achievements in further strengthening and cultivating the network.
LifeBank Foundation: Leading the Way in Protecting Children in Street Situations
LifeBank Foundation (LBF) has has shown unwavering commitment the plight of Children in Street Situations (CiSS), playing a pivotal role as a member of the Sub-Committee on the Protection and Welfare of Children in Street Situations (SC-PWCiSS) under the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC).
Through its active participation and support, LBF has helped shape impactful initiatives that champion the rights and welfare of vulnerable children in street situations across the Philippines.
LBF’s network leadership is evident in the development of various advocacy materials, such as the recently endorsed CiSS video series.
In July 2024, USec Angelo M. Tapales of the CWC formally endorsed this four-part animated video series, emphasizing its potential to raise public awareness about the challenges faced by CiSS.
The series, complemented by a discussion guide, is an important tool for educating and informing people about the rights of children in street situations, ensuring that their dignity is respected and their rights are upheld.
This endorsement is the culmination of years of collaboration among government agencies, and civil society organizations (CSOs), facilitated by the SC-PWCiSS. One of the major outcomes of these dialogues is the Philippine National Multi-Sectoral Strategic Plan on Children in Street Situations (PNMSSP-CiSS) 2021-2025, a roadmap aimed at creating sustainable, systemic solutions for children in street situations.
The video series, produced with the support of LBF, represents a significant milestone in the implementation of this strategic plan. Designed to be accessible and impactful, the videos are set to be distributed to Local Government Units (LGUs), CSOs, communities, and youth groups nationwide. Trained facilitators will use these videos to help shift perceptions, emphasizing that CiSS are valuable members of society who deserve love, care, and protection.
Through these initiatives, LifeBank Foundation is not only providing financial support but also taking an active role in policy advocacy and the implementation of change. Their leadership ensures that the voices of children in street situations are heard, their needs addressed, and their rights respected. By empowering a network of facilitators, champions, and young people, LBF is helping create a future where the rights of every child—especially those on the streets—are fulfilled.
LifeBank Foundation’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of CiSS continues to inspire and lead the way toward a more inclusive and compassionate society for all children.