This excellent programme has been designed by PCF Philippines in partnership with Pan-Asia Women’s Association (PAWA) and it is a resounding success. The programme began in April and will finish at the end of July. 50 female public school students living in Baguio have been enrolled onto the programme.
The programme is in two sections: Leadership and Values Education and Hygiene and Wellness.
The Leadership and Values Education programme focuses on personality development, building confidence and resilience and having faith that you can overcome challenges. The participants learned that a good leader also needs to be a good follower. The participants had meditation exercises to reflect on their own personal battles and challenges and how they can overcome these.
The students also were instructed in crisis management, with the recent incidences of earthquake in the Philippines, this topic was very timely and relevant. The training facilitator was from the City Office of Disaster Risk Reduction Management. The participants learned about how to survive natural disasters like having an emergency kit which comprises of flashlight, food, radio, batteries, alcohol and other primary needs. The key point learnt from this training was maintaining presence of mind and preparedness which can save lives in times of disasters.
The child protection programme was conducted by registered Social Worker from the City Social Welfare and Development Office. This topic served as an eye-opener about the increasing child abuse cases in the Philippines. The students were taught that abuse comes in any form; it can be physical, mental, emotional or even cyber. The speaker discussed the rights of the children and the laws regarding child protection policies.
The Hygiene and Wellness Programme will take place in June and July and will focus on personal hygiene and good housekeeping. The programme will finish with self defence instruction.
Below are a few of the quotes from the students.
“Child Protection is a good topic because girls like me can be a victim, like my friend who suffered from abuse. It’s important that we know our rights and how we can protect ourselves”
“This program gave us a very rare opportunity to express ourselves and be able to socialise with other people.”
“I will make sure to share my learnings to other young ladies like me. I am very grateful to PCF Philippines and PAWA for thinking of this program and benefiting girls like me.”
“This programme taught me how to survive and live life to the fullest.”
