The DSWD-NCR Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Operations Office 6 supports Bata-Balik Eskwela Campaign Activity in Barangay North Bay Boulevard North, Navotas City last June 26. The event was geared towards motivating children-beneficiaries who had discontinued their studies to renew their interest in pursuing education.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Karen C. Bullecer, Area Coordinator for OO 6, stressed the significance of the event for Not Attending School (NAS) monitored children’s beneficiaries so as for their families.
Reflecting on the legislative framework, Ms. Daneille Joy Sy, a City Link in Navotas City shed light on Republic Act 11310, also known as the 4Ps Act, underlining its relevance to poverty mitigation in the community. Ms. Sy encouraged attendees to engage in productive dialogues about the reasons behind children discontinuing their education and to actively participate in the proposed interventions.
Providing valuable insights, Ms. Luisa Elipan, Alternative Learning System Supervisor in Navotas City, conducted an extensive orientation on the Alternative Learning System, while Dr. Elmer Pangilinan from the City Health Department touched upon the various support services to address identified barriers hindering NAS children from pursuing education.
The event welcomed district supervisors from the Department of Education (DepEd) who elaborated on special education programs. Speakers including Ms. Maria Oliva C. Calimag, a Registered Guidance Counselor from Kaunlaran High School, along with volunteers Mr. Lex Anthony Paloma and Ms. France Alviz from the I AM Filipina Non-Government Organization shared their expertise.
Facilitated by fifteen City Links with support from partner Social Welfare Assistants (SWAs), Focus Group Discussions were conducted to assess and endorse parents and NAS children to suitable programs.
As the event culminated, a group photo captured the unity of 4Ps staff, resource speakers, and partner beneficiaries. The Bata-Balik Eskwela (BBE) initiative led by the Gender and Development team is instrumental in identifying obstacles faced by NAS children and introducing them to specialized education programs to reignite their passion for learning.
The collaboration between DSWD and its partners remains unwavering as they strive to revive the interest of NAS children in education.