By Alyanna Gabas and Yra Suarin
Within the enclosed space of an orphanage, lies echoes of laughter, memorable stories, and the shuffles of children playing. These institutions provide more than food and shelter; they offer a haven where children find support, stability, and a sense of belonging.
In Dumaguete City’s orphanages, such efforts are especially highlighted during the annual National Children’s Month celebration every November. This year, the theme “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines” signifies the importance of creating a safe environment for every child.
The theme is a call to action for communities, institutions, and individuals. It highlights the importance of children growing up in an environment that is not only safe but nurturing, where their well-being is prioritized and protected.
Casa Miani Arvedi
Casa Miani Arvedi stands as a compassionate home for neglected, orphaned, and abandoned boys, aged 7-18, from communities throughout Negros Oriental.
Run by Somascan fathers, the orphanage caters to orphans without serious physical and psychological disabilities.
Chazzie Nore D. Acain, a Casa Miani Social Worker, mentioned that the orphanage ensures that it practices to foster a familial environment.
“Fulfilling gyud, happy na maka serve ko nila, especially ga need sila ug family set-up gyud kay diri amo man jud gi train na naa jud family setting [It’s truly fulfilling and I’m happy to serve them, especially since they need a family set-up, which we strive to provide here],” she said.
The orphanage organizes events like an anti-bullying workshop, beach team-building, and an upcoming candle or soap-making activity. These initiatives aim to provide enjoymen twhile building skills and boosting the children’s confidence.
“Amo gyud goal is every weekend sa November, maka conduct gyud mi ug activity para sa mga bata [Our goal is to conduct an activity for the children every weekend of November],” she added.
While Casa Miani strives to provide a haven for these young boys, challenges persist, especially in terms of financial support. Acain noted that they are always on the lookout for sponsors to meet the boys’ needs.
“Pero si father kay kugihan man jud mangita ug sponsors, maningkamot gyud sha na every month maka provide gyud sa mga bata [But Father is diligent in seeking sponsors; he really strives to provide for the children every month],” she emphasized.
Despite these challenges, the staff’s resilience ensures that the children’s experience is positive and nurturing.
Acain also stated the importance of celebrating National Children’s Month with memorable experiences that the children will carry with them.
“Celebrating children’s month brings good memories gyud sa mga children, especially kani sila [Celebrating Children’s Month brings good memories for them, especially to these children].” she said.
Little Children of the Philippines Foundation Inc. (Hope Village)
Hope Village, a residential shelter program of Little Children of the Philippines, has been a sanctuary for street children since its establishment in 2004.
Founded by Betty and Douglas Elwood, a former professor at Silliman University Divinity School, the program began as a shelter for four boys.
Today, it serves as a home to a total of 70 children and youth, providing a safe and nurturing environment.
In celebration of National Children’s Month, Hope Village will host a Children’s Congress on Nov. 23.
The event will welcome residents of the shelter and other child beneficiaries from various barangays with activities that include a lecture on the rights of the child, a poster-making contest, and team-building exercises tailored for children.
Hope Village, in line with this year’s National Children’s Month theme, continues to implement programs and services that prioritize the best interests of each child.
“We are blessed to have partners like LGUs and private organizations or individuals who consistently share their counterparts and blessings to our precious kids so we can provide and address all their needs,” Hope Village representatives shared.
The shelter also encourages those who are interested to support their cause through donations or volunteer work to help them continue in providing children with a roof over their heads and hearts full of love.
In these homes, children find not just shelter but a second chance where they are seen, heard, and loved. The National Children’s Month celebration reminds us that while much remains to be done, institutions like Casa Miani and the Little Children of the Philippines Foundation Inc. are leading the way in protecting children and building a better future, one child at a time.
