The local leaders in Loyola Heights recently organized a Youth Summit to support the newly established youth organization in the area. It’s especially meaningful to us because two of our beneficiaries from the Manila Slum Project now hold officer positions in this organization. The Summit aimed to gather the community’s youth for a day of enjoyable activities and meaningful discussions. It was a significant event designed to actively involve young people in the community.
The Sanghaya team during the Youth Summit
Our Sanghaya team was invited to share about the dangers of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and the role of the youth in preventing these dangers from happening. Their goal was to raise awareness and empower the young participants to take action against these threats. They educated the youth about recognizing warning signs, protecting themselves online, and supporting peers who might be at risk.
Trizia, our program manager, encouraged our attendees to support and uplift each other. She emphasized the importance of community and the role that every individual can play in making a positive impact. Her message was about building a supportive network among the youth to drive positive change in their community.
Youth Summit Participants holding OSAEC material
The Quezon City Social Services Department was also represented at the Summit by Ms. Kit, who plays a crucial role in community welfare and youth development. The department is responsible for providing various social services, including support for vulnerable populations, child protection, and community development programs. They work to ensure the well-being of residents and address issues such as abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Ms. Kit’s involvement in the Youth Summit was significant. After the Sanghaya team’s presentation on OSAEC, she approached them to express her support and appreciation for their efforts. She acknowledged the importance of raising awareness about online exploitation and recognized the value of community-based initiatives like the summit. Ms. Kit offered to connect the Sanghaya team with other barangays (local districts) and schools, which could help broaden the reach of their awareness campaigns. The support from the Social Services Department also underscores the commitment of local authorities to safeguarding youth and supporting initiatives that promote their well-being. This newfound connections excite us as we continue our fight against OSAEC in the Philippines.
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