Isang Bata

Isang Bata donates toys for Dagdag Dunong's Halloween project

2011-11-18T05:46:00.000-08:00

Isang Bata donated toys for Dagdag-Dunong Project's Halloween Storytelling last October 31, 2011 in Kamias, Quezon City. Dagdag-Dunong Project's partners are Balangay Productions and Kagawad Dennis Joaquin. Isang Bata would like to thank Dino Narciso, Candie Cobiao and Bebang Siy for helping make the project happen.

Aftermath

2011-09-25T23:43:00.000-07:00

Written for "Writers Unite! 09.26.11 Write for Climate Justice"

by Ime Morales of Freelance Writers of the Philippines

I remember Ondoy very well because it was not only my city that suffered, my personal life at the time was taking a beating as well. After Ondoy, we all recovered somehow, however slow. Time healed the wounds and we moved on. We should be stronger and wiser for it. And perhaps we are. For Ondoy, like any adversity, has the power not only to destroy but to bring out our strengths.

http://isangbata.blogspot.com/2009/10/isang-batas-relief-mission-in-wawa.html

And we should know, however scary the thought may be, that Ondoy will come again, maybe in different forms. Literally and figuratively. Somehow we'd be better prepared. Just think of it this way. If there was no Ondoy, we probably won't be fighting for climate justice today.

Isang Bata on CodeRED

2011-09-07T04:14:00.000-07:00

Ruth Manimtim-Floresca of CodeRED recently wrote a feature on Isang Bata. Thank you to Ruth and Ms. Romelda Ascutia (EIC) for giving us space. Here are pages 16-18 of the June-August 2011 issue.

3rd and final leg of Isang Bata's 2011 Back-to-School Project

2011-09-05T19:36:00.000-07:00

Isang Bata once again worked with Akap Bata to distribute school supplies to more than a hundred children in Malanday, Marikina last July, 2011. We also gave the local school more than a hundred books to build a library. Thank you to Sara Denise Mendoza for the photos, to Dino Narciso for coordinating and spearheading this event, and to Arlene Brosas and Akap Bata for the partnership.

Helping the children of San Roque Primary School in Lanao del Norte

2011-07-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

(Excerpt from the report Isang Bata received from Kaabag Ranaw, Inc., Isang Bata's partner in this project. Another important partner is LBC Express and LBC Foundation, particularly Jose C. Garcia, who took care of sending all four boxes to Lanao del Norte.)

As of July 6, 2011, San Roque Primary school has a total of 100 pupils from day care to grade IV. Isang Bata sent over 100 school kits for these children, plus around a hundred books to build a small library. The following is the summary of recipients:

Kinder - 25
Grade 1 - 22
Grade 2 - 17
Grade 3 - 17
Grade 4 - 19

Books are very limited in San Roque Primary School. Only the teachers have text books. This is one of the reasons why the school does not have competitive/excellent students. Indeed, the children and the teachers are thankful for the rare opportunity to receive high-quality books.

Photos below are courtesy of Kaabag Ranaw, Inc., through Jojo Pacaldo, Executive Director.

This project would not be possible without the support and generosity of ‎Dino Narciso, Irene Chia, Kat Palasi, Lalaine F. Yanilla Aquino, Candie Cobiao, Joy Ty-Sy, ‎Henry Salazar, Jane Frances Salazar, Cooki Co Macatol, Iten Zamora del Rosario, Emmeline Aglipay, Aze Ramos, ‎Sara Denise Mendoza, Resti Hallig Santiago, Susan Cristie Delovino-Belmonte and LBC Express' Tedd Santos.

Ms. Alfanta, checking the school enrollee master list.

Kaabag Ranaw, Inc. staff members counting the books for turn over.

The kinder teacher browses through the books with interest.

Bgy. Captain Escorial, Ms. Alfanta and Kaabag Ranaw, Inc. staff members facilitate the distribution.

Child signing the acknowledgment receipt.

One school kit per child.

A short story telling session after the turn over.

The truck that brings the children to and from school. They cover a distance of 4 kilometers each time.

"SCHOOL BUS". Since around 40% of the constituents of San Roque are settling in the coastal area, a number of students go up and down every day. The barangay council has allocated budget for a 2-way travel every day from the coastal barangay to San Roque, a distance of about 4 kilometers. They usually leave at 7:00 and depart San Roque at 4:00 – 5:00 in the afternoon. This practice made the students even closer.

(Ime's note: This is such a strong image. I could not help but think of the school buses we have in Manila. In Lanao, these children have to make themselves fit in this truck and travel on rough roads while standing up for 4 kilometers every day, twice a day, rain or shine, without a roof over their heads--just to attend their classes. Could not imagine doing that myself. Amazing children.)

173 books for Cabasagan Elementary School

2011-05-27T15:00:00.001-07:00

Isang Bata turned over 173 books to the representative of Cabasagan Elementary School in Lanao del Norte yesterday. The principal, Intan Magigired, expresses her overflowing gratitude. Thank you to Agnes Atienza, Sush Narciso, Resti Hallig Santiago, Irene Chia, Aithne Lao, Joy Ty-Sy and Michelle Siy Yap. If you haven't seen the school, it might be difficult to grasp how big a difference 173 books could make on the lives of the students here.

We donated the following books: Science, Math, Religion, ICT, Pilipino/Pagbasa, Reference, Reading/Language, History/Culture, Activity books and of course, story books.

This is Cabasagan. Photos by Kat Palasi.

Dedat Salem, son of Cabasagan Elementary School principal Intan Magigired, receives the books from Isang Bata, including a 17-volume Encyclopedia Britannica donated by the Narciso family (through Sush).

The difference that one pencil can make

2011-05-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

It’s hard to believe, but in many places in the Philippines, there are children who don’t go to school just because they don’t have a pencil. Or paper to write on. But sometimes, they go ahead and go to class without these, and they end up not learning anything.

There is a small primary school in Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte called San Roque Primary School. Last year, the school served around 80 students in four grade levels. It only had two teachers. This year, the school expects enrollment to swell to more than a hundred, however, the administrators are apprehensive due to limited school resources and the students’ inability to secure basic school supplies.

This school year, Isang Bata would like to reach out to the primary school children of the remote barangay of San Roque. They have literally been forgotten by many aid workers, the Department of Education (last year text books were given ONLY to teachers), and other aid agencies probably due to distance, difficulty of travel and security concerns because of conflict in the area.

Isang Bata’s appeal. It is a rare opportunity for us Manila residents to be able to send help to our children in the remote areas of Mindanao. Through this small project, we at Isang Bata are really hoping that many will take this chance to send some assistance over to Kolambugan. Please send me, Ime, a message through 09179378617, 09202770315 or blubitel@yahoo.com. School supplies, books in good condition, toiletries and snacks for the children, and cash (for shipping expenses) are welcome. We hope to be able to help at least 100 students this year, and we want to get these donations to them by June 19 at the latest. So if you intend to share something, please send it over by June 15. And please help us spread the word through your blog, social networks, email groups, etc. Just cut and paste this announcement. Thank you very much.

.

Books for the children of Cabasagan

2011-04-06T16:01:00.000-07:00

ISANG BATA sends out a call for books to build a library for elementary school children. Donations will go to Cabasagan Elementary School in Lanao del Norte. The books will be turned over on April 26, 2011. The school doesn't have a library, doesn't have one decent book. It's a run-down school damaged during conflict in 2008. Cabasagan is a remote barangay in Lanao.

Believe me, getting some help to the children there is a RARE opportunity.

If you need more details, please email me, Ime, directly through blubitel@yahoo.com or text me through 09179378617.

A Mini Library of 100 Books for the Children of Gutted (and Demolished) Community in Navotas

2011-03-22T18:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, March 22, the sun shone at its fiercest. Representing Isang Bata, I went with Akap Bata on their feeding/gift-giving mission for the children of Kadiwa, Bgy. San Roque, Navotas City. Akap Bata is a progressive sectoral organization that advocates the rights of Filipino children. Thank you to Arlene Brosas, Secretary General of Akap Bata, for inviting me/Isang Bata to be a part of this activity.

Never in my whole life had I seen children line up under the scorching sun just to get their names listed for a chance (a chance!) to get one children's book. Some of the children who fell in line didn't even know how to read!

Last Christmas, Isang Bata received book donations from children's book author Heidi Eusebio Abad. These were the books I distributed to the Kadiwa children yesterday. There were only around 47 books, but the number of children was way more than that. So we tried various strategies in distribution: siblings were to share, even cousins had to share, and the younger ones who couldn't read yet didn't get copies of the book.

Aside from the 47 books, I also gathered the books donated to Isang Bata last year so I could come up with a 100-book mini library for the Kadiwa community. The collection was turned over to NASAKA (Nagkakaisang Samahan sa Kadiwa), the local residents association in the area, for safekeeping and guardianship. I would like to thank Candy Villanueva Lykes, Lalaine Yanilla Aquino, Dino Narciso, Sara Denise Mendoza and May Tobias Papa for these books.

Isang Bata plans to work with Akap Bata again next month to launch a reading/storytelling project for the children in the area. Possibly, a literacy workshop might be conducted as well. Aside from living in poverty and unsafe conditions, some children were traumatized after a huge fire burned down their houses last January 29, 2011, killing 12 people including 5 children. A week after the fire, a violent demolition/dispersal was carried out by the City Engineering Office to relocate the residents to another area. Click to view Tudla Productions' video of the violent demolition and dispersal http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWtrOYpw41Q

Get in touch with me, Ime, through 09179378617 or blubitel@yahoo.com if you want to help the children of Kadiwa.

Making a list of children who will get books

Swedish volunteer, Cecilia, reading to the children

Lining up in the sun for a signed copy of Abad's books

A long, long line it was

Who wants a book?!

Giving out the books

So happy to receive a copy

You could see that they were excited to read (or look at the pictures)

Akap Bata volunteers came up with a system to distribute the books to the children

Another Swedish volunteer, Amanda, played and sang with the children of Kadiwa

Fil-Swedish volunteer Marie playing games with the children

Cecilia had a full repertoire of children's action songs!

Amanda makes them listen to music on her iPod

Akap Bata's Secretary General Arlene Brosas: Gigibain ang bahay nyo, papayag kayo??

Akap Bata's Gift Giving and Feeding Project

Some of the children of Kadiwa, Barangay San Roque, Navotas City

Little girl amidst the rubble

Engrossed

New widow with her 1 year old Andrei

Talking to his father's picture (Antonio Homo, NASAKA's campaign officer, was gunned down last March 16, 2011 inside the NASAKA office)

With Akap Bata's Arlene Brosas and my newfound friend, Chloe aka Shembot :)

Please help baby Job

2011-02-14T16:51:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I received an email from Bowi's pediatrician when he was still a baby (we go to a different pedia now). She is asking people to help Job Tyrese Feliciano, her 7 month old patient diagnosed with Biliary Atresia shortly after birth. He will need a liver transplant at the soonest possible time in Taiwan. The family will need anywhere from 3 to 4 million, an amount they cannot afford at this time, but a liver transplant is Job's only chance at life.

What you can do: Please pray for Job and his family, first of all. If you have the capacity to give, please do so. Or you can share this note with your contacts so we can reach more people. If you know of any organizations, corporations, socio-civic groups who's willing to help, please let the family know ASAP.

Website: http://hopeforjob.blogspot.com/

Here is the solicitation letter that Job's parents have written:

HOPE FOR JOB: A CHANCE TO LIVE
Let me have a little time out of your day to read this earnest plea for help and spread the word

Dear _____________________________

Job Tyrese Feliciano, our first baby, was born in June 6, 2010 with BILIARY ATRESIA--a fatal, serious and rare liver disease that affects newborn infants (1 out of 15,000).

At seven months old, Job Tyrese's liver--and life--is at risk. His disease is caused by his liver not having bile ducts. The bile ducts should help the liver drain out bile to pass it on to the intestines for digesting food. As a result, the bile is trapped inside his body and this will cause liver scarring and loss of liver tissue/Cirrhosis. While the cause is still unknown, this disease is destroying his liver. Our son is jaundiced or has yellowish eyes and skin, his tummy is noticeably bigger than a normal baby, and his stool/poo is pale-colored. His digestion is poor that’s why he doesn’t gain weight that much.

At a tender age of two months, Baby Job already underwent Kasai procedure (Hepato-portoenterostomy)--a surgical procedure that temporarily provides a passage way of bile out of the liver. Unfortunately, the procedure was a failure. As a consequence his liver will eventually be damaged.

The solution the doctors came up with is through LIVER TRANSPLANT. The only curative management for Biliary atresia. The only option for baby Job. Unfortunately, the procedure can only be done in a hospital in Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and USA. More importantly, the operation costs some P3 million to P4 million specifically in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan.

It's a huge amount which our family does not have at this moment.

Myself and Thristian, my husband, are newlyweds and are earning just enough as nurses to support our daily needs and baby Job's medications. This is why we appeal to your kind consideration. Please help us raise funds for our son's liver transplantation. We will appreciate any amount from your kind heart. You can help us through donations:

BDO BANK PESO SAVINGS ACCOUNT: (Ortigas Ave. Branch)
Account Number: 1550156754
Account Name: Job Tyrese D. Feliciano
Swift Code: BNORPHMM

BDO BANK DOLLAR SAVINGS ACCOUNT: (Sta. Lucia Mall East-Felix Branch)
Account Number: 6310088717
Account Name: Raymelia D. Feliciano

Contact Information:
Please contact us for any help you may extend to our young family and we will forever be thankful and will pray to God to bless you for your compassion and generosity.

Thristian John Esperancilla Feliciano (Father) Raymelia “Sweet” del Rosario-Feliciano (Mother)
E-mail Address: jay_onaicilef@yahoo.com
Email Address: raymelia_badilla_delrosario@yahoo.com
Telephone number: (02)477-67-26
Telephone number: (02)477-67 26
Cellphone number: (+63)916-6369363
Cellphone number: (+63)927-6138727

For more information regarding Job Tyrese and Biliary Atresia, Please visit:
http://hopeforjob.blogspot.com/
Http://www.liftbabies.org/

Isang Bata's STORY THERAPY Part 2

2010-12-25T21:24:00.000-08:00

These are pictures from Isang Bata's Story Therapy Part 2 which happened on Christmas day at the Philippine Children's Medical Center in Quezon City.

The volunteer storytellers visited wards on the ground and second floors to tell stories to the patients. Everyone's favorite magician, Ton Delgado, also performed pocket magic shows in several wards. The children also received gifts: storybooks, fruits, toys, and more.

Isang Bata would like to thank May Tobias Papa, Irene Chia, Jes Aznar, Ton Delgado, Arlene Brosas of Akap Bata, Betty Uy-Regala, Opaline Santos, Justine Santos, Joanne Santos, Veronica Uy and Jojo Vitug together with their children Tring, Tyago and Kulas, Raffy Lerma of PDI, Jennifer Bautista, Jubelle Bautista, Merdin Mojica, Daxx Bondoc and Tito Bobbi. Thank you also to Miss Grace, social worker from PCMC for making the necessary arrangements for the event.

Photographs by Irene Chia, except where she's in the picture of course :p

Isang Bata's STORY THERAPY Part 1

2010-12-07T23:51:00.001-08:00

These are pictures from Isang Bata's Story Therapy Part 1 which happened yesterday, December 7, at the Philippine Children's Medical Center in Quezon City. 1 magician, 7 storytellers, 1 photographer and 3 patrons/donors made 27 children (and their parents/caregivers) happy even for a short moment.

The volunteer storytellers visited 11 wards to tell stories to the patients. Everyone's favorite magician, Ton Delgado, also did the rounds of 4 wards to perform pocket magic shows. The children also received gifts: storybooks, fruits, toiletries, and more.

Isang Bata would like to thank Peter Foo, Irene Chia, Alvin Gesmundo, Liza Guevarra, Lalaine Aquino, Liwliwa Malabed, Henri Cimatu, Liandro Tolosa, Helene Uy, Leonor Tuazon, Aze Ramos, Jes Aznar, Rom Factolerin and his wife, and Ton Delgado for making this event possible. Thank you also to Miss Beth Jayobo of PCMC for giving us the opportunity to meet all the wonderful children.

Story Therapy Part 2 happens on Christmas Day. If you want to volunteer or send gifts for the children, please get in touch with me, Ime, through 09179378617.

New computers for Wawa Elementary School

2010-12-05T05:37:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, December 4, 2010, Isang Bata and four members of CLAY (Computer Literacy Advocates for the Youth) of DLSU headed to Wawa Elementary School to turn over two computer units. Before this, all of the teachers used an old PC to work on their reports and other documents. They could not even teach basic computer skills to the upper grades because the teachers were taking turns in using the low-performance computer unit. Principal Mercy Gutierrez said that because of the donated computers, the teachers' work will now be lighter, easier and faster. And they will be able to conduct computer classes for the students. Isang Bata thanks Aithne, Brian, JB and Jen of CLAY.

Wawa Elementary now has these two sleek and slim units for the teachers and students.

Initial testing. Everything worked perfectly.

Principal Mercy Gutierrez (third from left) and some members of her teaching staff

Aithne conducts a crash course on how to operate the units

Members of DLSU's CLAY (Computer Literacy Advocates for the Youth). Mabuhay kayo!

From left: Aithne, Isang Bata's Ime Morales, Jen, Principal Mercy Gutierrez and Brian

Isang Bata donates 2 computer units to Wawa Elementary School, feeds 20 children for 6 months through the Feed Their Future Project

2010-11-28T16:19:00.000-08:00

A few quick announcements:

1. With the help of San Miguel Corporation (through Dong Magcalen and Rosie Unson), Isang Bata donated cash to Feed Their Future Project (www.feedtheirfuture.org) to help nourish 20 school children from Pinagsabiran Elementary School in Tanay, Rizal. The money will be used to feed these children healthy lunches three times a week for six months starting January 2011. Isang Bata thanks Daxx Bondoc for coordinating this project.

I will be conducting my second round of Values Education Seminar for the Pinagsabiran children in January. Volunteers are welcome to take part in this.

2. On December 4, 2010, Isang Bata will go up to Wawa Elementary School to donate 2 computer units to this equipment-strapped institution. Principal Mercy Gutierrez has made the request a few months ago. Through Aithne Lao and her DLSU-based organization, Isang Bata is finally making this wish come true. Volunteers are welcome to participate in the turn over on Saturday.

3. Story Therapy for the sick children of Philippine Children's Medical Center is pushing through this December 7 and December 25 (Part 2). Slots are still open for the Christmas day event. All 15 volunteers for the December 7 leg will receive final guidelines after Wednesday, December 1. Those who wish to join the December 25 activity, please email me through morales.ime@gmail.com or text me through 0917-9378617.

KEEP THE LOVE BURNING FOR THE CHILDREN! :)

On a scale of 1 to 10, how happy are you?

2010-11-19T23:30:00.000-08:00

I asked them this question this morning and was surprised by their answers. Most answered 7, 8 or 9, and one even gave it a 10!

I went to Wawa, Rodriguez, Rizal on the morning of November 20 to meet with the 8 Isang Bata scholars from Wawa National High School. I actually went up to Wawa for a bit of chitchat with Christine, Lino, Ryan, Badette, Cedrick, Danilo and Jericho (Sam didn't make it to the meeting). We had some snacks, talked about our most fervent wishes, the things that make us sad, the things that make us happy, how we cope with life's challenges, our plans for the future, etcetera, etcetera. It was, on the whole, about things that one would talk about with friends over coffee at Starbucks. But our little heart to heart conversation happened up in the mountains of Rizal, over tetrapak juices and mamon, inside a dusty classroom in Wawa National High School. I would have this over Starbucks any day. These children are amazing. They inspire me and continue to prove that their happiness meter can hit the higher numbers better than most of us who enjoy life's little luxuries. Here are 7 of the 8 Isang Bata scholars. Meet Christine, Lino, Ryan, Badette, Cedrick, Danilo and Jericho.

Badette dreams of becoming a teacher someday. She loves to sing. Her most fervent wish is to finish college and get a good job so she could help her parents and her 10 siblings.

Ryan dreams of becoming a lawyer someday. He was born without legs and arms, but his spirit is strong and his will, tough. He told me that they are being evicted from where they are living, and wishes for a permanent dwelling for his family.

Lino lives with his siblings and their relatives after his father passed on and his mother left them to fend for themselves. He loves to sell things and wants to take up Business Management in college. Lino is serious about his studies and his grades are proof of his diligence.

Ryan, Lino and Christine shared their hopes and dreams with me. Their optimism and happiness are amazing, especially Christine's.

Christine is a reader. Among all the scholars, she's the highest achiever, and the happiest! She is a charming A-type persona who dreams of becoming a high school teacher someday.

Jericho walks to school for one hour every day, and walks back home for another hour after school. He crosses mountains and rivers every single day just to get to school at six am. Talk about determination.

Danilo's right eye is blind and has glaucoma. Dr. Carlos Alberto from St. Luke's QC recommended surgery, but the family is hesitant because of the cost. He might need that surgery soon because his eye has been very painful lately, keeping him from coming to class. Despite his physical and economic handicap, Danilo seems a very happy, very positive kid. And his manners, impeccable.

Cedrick will be graduating next year and dreams of going into IT. He's your typical boy next door who gets bored at home and who would rather spend his time hanging out with friends. But don't be fooled, he is serious about his studies and is happiest when his siblings and parents are happy as well.

Working on some light exercises

Ime and scholars during workshop

Isang Bata's Ime Morales with Cedrick, Badette, Lino, Ryan (seated), Christine, Danilo and Jericho.

2010-11-16T22:37:00.000-08:00

Join STORY THERAPY, Isang Bata's Christmas Program for Sick Children

2010-11-14T16:42:00.001-08:00

You don't need to spend money to make a child happy this Christmas. Isang Bata is inviting you to take part in its Story Therapy project on December 7, 2010 at the Philippine Children's Medical Center in Quezon City, where a lot of children will be spending the holiday season sick in their hospital beds. Let us make Christmas just a little bit brighter for these children.

We will be working with around 150 children, so we need as many volunteers as possible. Volunteers only need to pick an inspiring storybook and read it to a sick child on the day of the program. Invite your friends to come so you can have fun while making a difference together. Everyone is encouraged to unleash their creativity during storytelling: you can use props, music, puppets, etcetera. Remember, it's your gift to them.

Around 60 of these children are infants (neonates, the hospital calls them). So if you can also bring at least one rattle or one soft toy (or any kind of baby toy) on December 7, that would be awesome as well. You're also welcome to bring gifts for the older children, if you like, in the form of books, toys or clothes.

Register now as a storyteller, and let's offer some Story Therapy to these sick children. Please contact me (Ime Morales) through:

0906-2457910
morales.ime@gmail.com

Deadline for registration is on November 30, 2010.

Please spread the word and help me share this announcement to as many people as possible.

The First Meeting

2010-09-18T14:05:00.000-07:00

The first ever "formal" meeting of Isang Bata friends happens today, September 19, at 3pm in my home in Quezon City. I sent out an invite for this, but if you would like to be part of this, please send me a message before 12noon through 09062457910.

Join our yahoogroup for updates

2010-09-05T18:20:00.000-07:00

To all the friends of Isang Bata, please join our yahoogroup for activity/event updates. Go to groups.yahoo.com and find isangbata. Click on Join this group. Thanks!

Isang Bata visits CRIBS

2010-09-04T13:58:00.000-07:00

Last August 29, 2010, volunteers from Isang Bata and Peace Blossoms Internal Arts Society visited CRIBS Foundation in Marikina. The group brought gifts and brunch for the 25 babies and toddlers (aged 0-3) and the 26 girls (teenagers) residing in the shelter.

The volunteers played with the toddlers and cuddled the infants, because touch is something that these children crave for. These children would readily approach and embrace strangers, unlike ordinary babies or toddlers who might spend a good amount of time sizing up a person first. They would also cry when visitors leave, which is something that always breaks the hearts of visitors and the children, as well.

We also spent time with the teen girls and had fun eating with them, talking and dancing (!) with them. The Peace Blossoms Internal Arts Society will be working with CRIBS to provide free tai chi training to these girls, to somehow lessen or help them cope with their psychological and emotional traumas. The weekly tai chi sessions will most probably start this September.

Thank you to the following volunteers who supported this activity: Irene Chia, Helene Uy (who put together the gifts), Leonor Tuazon (photos), Aze Ramos and niece, Jenny Bautista, Daxx Bondoc, Sonia Astudillo and Kat, Ton Delgado (our designated emcee and program host), Iris Lorenzo with Patrick Dailey, Karla and Nick, and Carla and Ira Jimenez with Julius.

CRIBS is a home for abandoned, neglected and surrendered children, and sexually abused young girls. To find out how you can help these children, please visit their website over at www.cribsfoundation.org

The group arrives on a Sunday morning for a 2-hour interface with the babies, toddlers and teen girls of Create Responsive Infants by Sharing (CRIBS)

Volunteers Sonia and Jenny, during the turnover of our simple gifts to CRIBS.

Photos by Leo Tuazon. Visitors are not allowed to photograph the CRIBS children for security and ethical reasons.

Wawa Updates

2010-08-27T23:35:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, August 26, Isang Bata volunteers Helene Uy and Leonor Tuazon went up to Wawa with me (Ime) for the turn over of a month's worth of groceries and cash for the breakfast program. This project benefits at least 30 of Wawa National High School's hungriest so they can be sure to eat nutritious meals to start their day. Isang Bata believes that every student needs to study on a full stomach to retain the knowledge being imparted to them.

Isang Bata also turned over one-month cash allowances for the scholars, who are at present getting P1,500 monthly. The organization donates P3,000 a month to the school (in cash and groceries) for its breakfast program, which is being funded now by Tze, an Isang Bata supporter from New Zealand.

During the visit, we were also introduced to the new principal of Wawa National High School, Ma'am Zenaida Palileo, and we discussed with her some of our upcoming projects in their school: a general assembly of all the 10 scholars (yes from 8 last year, Isang Bata now has 10 scholars!) to assess the scholarship system and benefits during the previous year, and to come up with a series of trainings or workshops for these students so the organization can supplement the financial help with much needed guidance and coaching about values, spirituality and life, in general. The additional scholars will be getting P1,000 each.

The group also went up to Wawa Elementary School to discuss with the OIC (Ma'am Mercy Gutierrez, the principal, was absent) our upcoming computer unit donation to the school, care of Aithne Lao and her computer org in DLSU. Here are a few photos from our recent trip to Wawa.

From left: Isang Bata's Ime Morales, Wawa National High School's new principal Zenaida Palileo, Ma'am Ritchel Yorsua, and Isang Bata volunteer Helene Uy

The students were having their periodical tests on the day we were there.

Ime walking up to Wawa Elementary School with Ate Wena, mother of one of Isang Bata's 10 scholars.

Volunteers for CRIBS visit

2010-08-01T11:54:00.000-07:00

We are planning to make a short visit to CRIBS, a shelter for abandoned/abused babies and children, to spend a few hours cuddling the babies and playing with them. Those who would like to join can bring any item from the Cribs Wishlist here: http://www.cribsfoundation.org/howtohelp.html

We are not soliciting or raising funds for this visit because the original intention is to just spend a few hours with the babies and children to play and give some warmth to the infants. That is why whatever material donation you can or want to give, kindly just bring them on the day itself and share it with the kids. Everyone is welcome to bring food for sharing. The visit is set on August 29, 2010 at 10am. Meeting place is UP Diliman (near the Oblation/Admin Building) at 9am.

Please let me know what you plan to bring. We'll have to make a list and coordinate online so there will be no duplication. Thank you and see you on the 29th!

Isang Bata turns over 621 books to QC public school

2010-07-27T03:06:00.000-07:00

Isang Bata donated 621 elementary books to San Vicente Public Elementary School in Quezon City on July 27, 2010. The school has a population of close to 3,000 elementary school kids. Benedicto D. Sula, the Property Custodian of San Vicente, received the book donation. Regina Maria Montessori in Sucat, Paranaque donated the books to Isang Bata.

Isang Bata on Good Housekeeping

2010-07-01T01:04:00.001-07:00

Check out the July 2010 issue of Good Housekeeping. There is a one-page writeup related to Isang Bata. Thank you to Rachelle Tesoro for choosing me as one of the four featured women in the article.

After Puypuy: Some notes on the recent back-to-school project

2010-06-24T19:01:00.000-07:00

Very few people know that activities like this one usually leave me depressed rather than lighthearted or, as many would probably assume, fulfilled.

Because these events only confirm the fact that:

1. the supplies will only last a few weeks, or months
2. there is more substantial work to be done
3. these children need a lot more than a few pencils
4. we are only scratching the surface of a deeper, more basic issue

That is why I make it a point, at every community I visit, to really talk to people. And I encourage all volunteers to do the same. Get into conversations with the mothers, the children, and really find out what the needs are. And if, as a blessing, we or any of our contacts and friends have the capability to address those needs, then there lies your next project.

In Puypuy, I was able to talk to the school principal who told me that the school has many students who would usually come to class hungry and feeling faint. "How could you learn the lessons in the classroom if your stomach is empty?" she said. Very similar to Wawa, Rodriguez, Rizal, where Isang Bata has launched a breakfast program in 2009, I believe this scenario is common to hundreds (thousands?) of urban poor barangays/public schools all over the Philippines.

Barangays and daycare centers conduct feeding programs, but according to the Puypuy principal, this doesn't happen every day. The children, however, need to eat every day and I think that if YOU can share a meal with a child at least once every week, it will make a big difference.

Encourage restaurant owners (hotel, resort, club owners, too, and their associations if any) to send excess food (good, safe and healthy food) to public schools or the local barangay once or twice a week. If you have safe and healthy food at home to share, do this in your own community.

Remember that little acts, when done collectively, will go a long way. If we'll think we can't make a difference because we are small or poor or busy, who will?

Let's do small things together, yes?

= = =

Volunteer organizations and individuals also need to be aware that it is always important to emphasize that whenever we give donations to people, it comes with a certain amount of responsibility. The last thing we want is to be an organization or individuals who blindly give dole-outs. If there are ways to empower the communities and teach them to be responsible for themselves WHILE we help them, I think that would be the best kind of assistance we can give.

Thinking about these things only make me realize the immense work, and responsible sharing that need to be carried out, carefully and slowly and consistently.

Just sharing my two cents. I would love to read your comments.

ISANG BATA'S ANNIVERSARY PROJECT: Isang Bata + The Forest Club's successful back-to-school project in Puypuy Elementary School, Bay, Laguna!

2010-06-22T17:28:00.000-07:00

Last June 21, volunteers from Isang Bata and The Forest Club trooped to Puypuy Elementary School in Bay, Laguna to help inspire more than 50 Grade 1 students to study diligently and come to class every day. The program included a storytelling session with Lalaine Aquino (Kuting president and professor from the UP Diliman), a magic show by Ton Delgado, and parlor games conducted by The Forest Club marshals. 2 bags with school supplies and other personal items were distributed to each child.

The bags (one backpack and one gift bag) contained the following items:

notebooks
pad papers
pencils
ballpen
erasers
scissors
pencil case
ruler/art set
shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap and slippers
multivitamins 120ml syrup
snack pack
socks
crayons
raincoat
sharpener
plastic envelope
writing set
paste

The group also gave away the following prizes to the game winners:

art kits
magic slates
colored pencils
stamp sets
small backpacks
erasers

...and gave away 12 teachers' bags with the following contents for the classrooms, library, HE room, principal's office and canteen:

wall clock
bible
teacher's notebook/date book
art materials

Isang Bata would like to thank the following donors and volunteers:

Wawel Mercado
Robbi Mercado
Ruben Layug
Karen Cortes
Caloy, The Forest Club marshals and staff
The Vespa Club of the Philippines
Dino Narciso
Peter Foo
Lalaine Aquino
Ton Delgado
Sara Denise Mendoza
Daxx Bondoc
Helene Uy
Iris and JC Lorenzo
Patrick Dailey
Mary Anne Colico
Jaymie Divinagracia
Melissa Benitez
May Tobias Papa
Kuwentista ng mga Tsikiting
Tata Francisco
Regina Maria Montessori in Sucat
Rossana Unson
Charlie Morales and Toto
John Talamayan
Leonard Regis
Bowi Aznar
Aileen Dealca
John Rana
Felipe Teh
Mark Laccay
Bhong de la Cruz
Gerry San Juan
Nelyo Alivio
Glynson Cua
Tops Marin
Gabby Buluran
Uriel Protomartir
Corrine Burgos
Danny Escano
Darvin Escano
Froilan Dejuras
Dr. Enjo Gatdula
Gabby Buluran
Caloy Barangan
April Abracia
Association Of Foundations
Polyton Industries, Inc.
Generics Pharmacy
Rowena Naesenth
Lisa Angulo
Vangie Montalbo
Anne Pagaduan
Marco Abelardo
Sara Denise Mendoza
Beth Gingoyon
Anna Talens
Mitch Gadja
Minnie Jumaquio
Jason Jumaquio
Janet Barbara
Lester Parulan
Wilma Roldan
Melody Dolosa
Principal Francisca Ramos

Program hosts from the upper grades

More than 50 Grade 1 pupils of Puypuy Elementary School

Impressive library

Ime Morales and Bowi, on their way to Puypuy

Gifts for the children

Ton the Magician. The kids loved him!

They were giggling throughout the funny Where's the Rabbit segment

Kuting's Lalaine Aquino told 2 stories that morning

The Forest Club's Wawel Mercado delivers a brief introductory remark

Onstage: Principal Ramos, Dino, Daxx, Wawel, Ime and Bowi

The kids went home with 2 bags each

We hope we inspired these kids to study harder

They also played games!

And they loved the prizes!

Ton Delgado making the little table fly :)

Isang Bata's Ime addresses the little children

Some of the people who made it happen

The children were served pancit, fried chicken and iced tea for lunch

Some of the teachers from Puypuy Elementary School

Isang Bata volunteer Dino Narciso helps distribute the bags

Isang Bata Receives Book Donations from Regina Maria Montessori

2010-06-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

Isang Bata's Ime Morales with Regina Maria Montessori's Tata Francisco

Tata facilitated the donation of these books to Isang Bata, which the group will be sharing with Grace Leung's KaEskwela.

The elementary school books will be donated to Puypuy Elementary school during the back-to-school program of Isang Bata and Forest Club in June 2010 (probably third week).

Thank you to Wawel Mercado for lending us the vehicle (and Caloy) to pick up the books in Sucat, Paranaque.

Updates on Puypuy Elementary School back-to-school project

2010-06-03T13:58:00.000-07:00

Isang Bata and The Forest Club have received donations in cash and kind, plus pledges from people here and abroad. To date, we have collected the sum of P10,500, books for the library, and school supplies for the 50 first graders we are helping this year. We will be posting the names of our donors before the actual event. But I am sending my heartfelt gratitude to the numerous people and organizations who are helping to make this project possible.

We have not set a final date for the event yet but most probably, it will happen on the third week of June. So if you plan to send more stuff over, please do. Here is a list of what we lack:

Personal things/toiletries for the kids like toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap/shampoo, socks, towels, etc. You can also give water bottles or bottles of vitamins or milk.

For more information, you can leave a message here or email me through imelda.aznar@yahoo.com or text/call me through 09062457910

Abandoned babies need your help

2010-05-20T01:41:00.000-07:00

Grace to be Born is a Pasig-based shelter for abandoned babies and pregnant mothers. Last November, Isang Bata donated medicines and vitamins for the children and pregnant moms.

The shelter currently needs more support. The babies need Bonna infant formula, and the moms and shelter staff need rice. Donations in kind or cash will be accepted.

If you have extra, please please send them to these babies and mommies in need. Get in touch with me through this site, email (imelda.aznar@yahoo.com), or mobile phone (09062457910). Thank you.

= = =

Coming from the Shelter, a journal excerpt

written on november 29, 2009 after my visit to grace to be born shelter, home for abandoned babies and mothers

... so now that my heart and hand brim with desire to offer a poem for A, the 3month old baby i just met at the shelter 2 hours ago, i couldnt find the words. i remember clearly how soft his skin was and how small the fingers, his eyes were too expressive for his age and i had this feeling that at 3months he knew that he was an orphan, and that his mother was not coming back for him. i held his hands and touched his toes for many minutes. i tried to leave twice and twice he "called" for me. on my third attempt to go, i just left him with a whispered "have a good life". because how does one write about things like this? a kind of pain so different from all the other pain i have in my life now, yet definitely not less significant. but a pain i would have loved to honor with a decent poem, had i the wisdom to find the right words...

Puypuy Project Update

2010-05-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

We at Isang Bata are in need of the following for our Puypuy Elementary School Back-to-School project:

40 grade 1 pads
40 writing notebooks
40 pencil cases
35 pencils
40 sharpeners
40 boxes of 8s crayons
50 envelope bags
books for grade 1 students (for their library)
plus, anything else that you might want to donate, in cash or kind.

Donations will be accepted until the first week of June. Spread the word!

Let's Give Young Children A Good Beginning This School Year

2010-05-12T18:27:00.001-07:00

Isang Bata is one year old! To celebrate this milestone, Isang Bata, together with The Forest Club, is launching a back-to-school program for fifty Grade 1 kids from Puypuy Elementary School, Bay, Laguna.

As they start their elementary education, we want to inspire these children, make them feel good about school, and help give them a good start this June.

Barangay Puypuy is one of the poorest barangays in Bay, Laguna. The kids definitely need all the help we can give them.

Isang Bata is inviting you to be a part of this project. Start looking around your home for usable books, notebooks, paper and other school supplies that you might want to donate. Or you can add a few items for the children when you do your back-to-school shopping this May. And if there is any other way you want to contribute or participate, please do not hesitate to call me, Ime, at 09062457910 or send me an email through blubitel@yahoo.com

CONCERT FOR A CAUSE

2010-04-13T21:30:00.001-07:00

I am helping a friend promote another worthwhile event. Please come to this concert on May 21 and help send poor but deserving students to UP Diliman :) I hope to see you there!

= = =

CONCERT FOR A CAUSE

Ex Libris Philippines, a SEC-certified, nonstock, nonprofit organization of book enthusiasts, is raising funds in order to help send deserving but financially challenged UP students to school. Their last two fundraising projects held March 2007 and April 2008 have funded the education of seven poor but deserving students at the University of the Philippines, Diliman.

Ex Libris Philippines is now holding its third fundraising project, a Concert for a Cause, with performances by Gabriela and Natasha Francisco, Franco Maigue, Raymond Sanga, and other alumni and teachers of the UP College of Music. All funds to be raised will go to the Scholarship Project. The concert will be on May 21, 2010, Friday, 6 p.m. at the UP College of Music, Abelardo Auditorium.

Tickets are at Php 300.00 each. For tickets, please contact Tata Francisco at 0920-947-08-61, or Gabi Francisco at 0920-947-08-35. You can also email teachertata@gmail.com, or gabitwin@gmail.com.

For more info on Ex Libris Philippines and its Scholarship Project, please visit: http://exlibrisphilippines.multiply.com

Please help spread the word!

GOLF TO GIVE

2010-04-13T20:56:00.000-07:00

Here is an activity/event by a group which I am a (small) part of: Grace Leung's KaEskwela :) I hope my Isang Bata friends can support this worthwhile event.

Are you a golf enthusiast? Here's a perfect opportunity to play for a good cause!

GOLF TO GIVE

A KaEskwela Fundraising Tournament for Public School Libraries

April 27, 2010 (Tuesday)
Wack Wack Golf & Country Club

Ticket: P3500
Inclusive of Green Fee, Caddie Fee, Dinner, Giveaway and Raffle Entry

For ticket and sponsorship inquiries, email kaeskwelavolunteers @yahoo.com or text 0917-5365293 (Katrina), 0917-5363224 (Grace)

Slots are limited, so get your tickets now!

For more information about KaEskwela, check out www.brigadaeskwela.multiply.com and www.kaeskwela.org

Please feel free to forward to your friends who play golf, or to organizations that may be willing to support the event.

Two Isang Bata scholars are outstanding students

2010-04-07T23:32:00.000-07:00

Christine Cagadas and Lino Miranda, two of the eight scholars of Isang Bata, landed on the 3rd and 2nd top places, respectively, in their classes last school year. Christine was in 3rd year, and Lino in 2nd year. It was a heartwarming piece of news and I'm sure their sponsors, Carol Soriano Macasaet (for Christine), Lyli Eleuterio and Chikki Agbayani (for Lino) are all proud and happy about their scholars' success. I myself am very pleased and very proud about their achievements.

I met Christine and Lino's parents last year and was moved by the facts about their lives. From having only dim prospects for scholarly success due to poverty, these kids have risen above adversity and managed to perform very well in school, with the help of their sponsors. This was what I wrote about them last year:

"Lino's father is dead, and his mother had gone missing. He is now under the care of a guardian, but like everyone else, he is in urgent need of financial assistance so he can graduate from high school."

"Christine is 14 years old. Her father has cancer and needs medical attention so she often needed to stay home and help out. Her mother works as a housemaid."

ANOTHER WONDERFUL NEWS

On another note, five sponsors have expressed their intention of supporting their scholars through the next school year! Anj Sales Onrubia will be paying for Bernadette's schooling, until she finishes high school and even through college! Isn't that just great? Peter Foo will likewise support John Cedrick through high school. Iten del Rosario will also be continuing support for Danilo next year. And Carol Soriano Macasaet and Auchee Villaraza will keep sending money for their scholars until March 2011!

I'm just so filled with gratitude today, my heart glows with pride and love. Mabuhay po kayong lahat :)

Isang Bata at the Wawa National High School Commencement Exercises

2010-04-07T03:59:00.000-07:00

JCI Manilena President Armi Nabablit and me in Wawa, Rodriguez Rizal

With Wawa Elementary School Principal Mrs. Mercy Gutierrez

With Isang Bata's Peter Foo

Discussing classroom situation with Peter

Wawa Elementary School sits at the foot of a mountain

Each class has an average of 60 students!

Principal Gutierrez tells me there are only 18 teachers to teach the elementary kids

Photo op at the foot of steps leading up to the school

Discussing our projects with Principal Mercy. Ladies on the foreground are preschool teachers at the barangay daycare center.

At the Principal's office

With Leonard Regis, owner of service we used

I'm wearing my JCI Manilena shirt because the ocular was mainly for Manilena projects and campaigns

= = =

Last April 5, 2010, the principal of Wawa National High School, Mr. Vivencio Felix, invited Isang Bata to grace the commencement exercises and witness the graduation of their high school seniors.

I went with Isang Bata sponsor Peter Foo, and JCI Manilena president Armi Nabablit, who went for our meeting with key persons regarding new campaigns for Wawa Elementary School, and five (5) daycare centers under the local barangay of San Rafael. It was a productive day, to say the least.

Armi and I met with the principal of Wawa Elementary, Mercy Gutierrez, and a couple of teachers from the daycare around 11 in the morning. Then we had a meeting with San Rafael barangay captain Edgar Sison.

After the meetings and a simple lunch at a local carinderia, Peter and I were welcomed at the graduation with wooden necklaces and were made to walk on the red carpet under shining cris-crossed swords. We sat with the school's guests of honor including Anakpawis' Ka Paeng Mariano. Peter delivered a short congratulatory address.

We all had merienda together before Peter and I left at half past three so I could make it to another meeting in Quezon City. It was a full day for me. Big thanks to Leonard Regis for driving us around the entire day :)

At one point during merienda, the high school principal pulled me aside to discuss Isang Bata's participation in school-related activities and administration/decision-making. Wawa National High School considers Isang Bata as a partner and friend. For my part, Wawa National High School has also grown close to my heart because of the projects we've launched there and the people I've come to meet over the years. It will be Isang Bata's pleasure, indeed, to be the school's partner and supporter.

On another note, I am facilitating the launch of more projects for Wawa, this time under JCI Manilena, of which I am also Director for Community Development. For Wawa Elementary, we are donating at least a couple of computer units for the use of teachers. We are also talking with IBM Philippines regarding a possible computer literacy program for preschoolers (for the 5 daycare centers in San Rafael) under IBM's Kidsmart program, as well as a reading program for the grade schoolers.

On top of these, we'll also be looking for sponsors for more scholars! We will try to help 30 deserving but underprivileged elementary students go to school by offering financial assistance.

Isang Bata has 8 scholars from high school, who are being given P1500-P2000 every month. The 30 elementary scholars, 5 from each grade level, would receive P700 monthly. Let me know if you are interested to take part in any of these endeavors.

Mag-akyat ng Aklat sa Wawa

2010-04-07T03:45:00.000-07:00

From left: Iding, Bebang, Wennie, Maam Ritchelle, Principal Mercy, me, and two faculty members from Wawa Elementary

Isang Bata, together with Dagdag Dunong and the UST College of Engineering, donated more than a thousand books to Wawa Elementary School and Wawa National High School last March 14, 2010.

Read more about this here:
http://blogs.gmanews.tv/abet-umil/archives/39-Akyat-aklat.html

Isang Bata donates medicines to infants, children and pregnant mommies

2009-12-04T10:42:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday, November 29, I went to Grace to be Born shelter in Pasig to deliver medicines. Big thanks to Carla Jimenez, Lyli Eleuterio, Evelyn Claros-Corr and Marlene Badilla!

DONATED MEDICINES

A. FOR BABIES

oral rehydrating solution - 50
paracetamol drops - 12 bottles
cold medication - 12 bottles
Vitamin C drops - 24 bottles
multivitamin drops - 24 bottles
cough medication - 12 bottles
sodium chloride - 12 bottles

B. FOR CHILDREN

paracetamol syrup - 3 bottles
multivitamins syrup - 6 bottles
Vitamin C syrup - 6 bottles
cold medication - 3 bottles
cough medication - 3 bottles

C. FOR PREGNANT MOTHERS

ferrous sulfate + folic acid - 600 tablets
calcium carbonate - 600 tablets
Vitamin C - 600 tablets
multivitamins + ferrous sulfate + folic acid - 300 tablets
multivitamins - 600 tablets
cold medication - 100 tablets

CHRISTMAS ON MY MIND

2009-11-08T12:51:00.000-08:00

I’m up at 4am on a Monday thinking about Isang Bata’s Christmas Program. Personally, Christmas is my most favorite time of year, and I can’t pass up this chance to celebrate the season with children who have less. Especially since the universe is conspiring to make it happen.

Let me tell you a little story that happened days ago. I met with Maam Ritchelle from Wawa National HS to turn over bags of breakfast items (for our ongoing breakfast program there) and cash for the scholars. We chatted for about an hour and she casually mentioned to me that the principal of Wawa Elementary School once saw her carrying a huge pot of soup for the children's breakfast. The two of them got to talking about Isang Bata's projects in Wawa and the elementary principal was "inggit na inggit" according to Maam Ritchelle. The principal said that a lot of the younger kids are as needy, as hungry, as poor as the high school students, but they don't get any support like the kind we give to the high school. It was a sign, of course.

And then when I got home and checked my mail, I found a message from a friend’s friend who’s living abroad. She is giving USD100 to Isang Bata with specific instructions for me to use it to help elementary kids. A few days later, I got another USD86 from another donor, which I intend to use for the same program. This second donor gave her consent to use the money for the younger children. But it doesn’t end there. A few more days later, an old friend of mine, Bebang Siy who also helps children through her Dagdag Dunong Project (www.dagdagdunong.blogspot.com), sent me a message to tell me that she is launching a book drive for Isang Bata. I had asked her help for our Ondoy mission, but she was busy at the time. It is just as well, because we have now agreed to solicit books for an elementary school’s library, and to donate the books to Wawa Elementary School.

So now, dear friends, our Christmas project has taken a life of its own. I’m calling it PASKO SA WAWA (CHRISTMAS IN WAWA), and it is set tentatively on the morning of December 14. Here is my proposed program/activity:

I – Turn over of books to the library of Wawa Elementary School – c/o Dagdag Dunong Project and Isang Bata
II – Distribution of Christmas gifts to the elementary school kids (clothes, toys, treats, etc.)
III – A simple Christmas merienda
IV – A puppet show, magic show, a mini concert or a storytelling session

There are many ways you can support this project:

1. Help solicit (or donate) books for the elementary library
2. Help solicit (or donate) toys, clothes, and other items we could give the kids
3. Donate money for the project
4. Volunteer to be the magician, storyteller or puppet master, or play for the kids
5. Volunteer to come along and help out during the event, help prepare for it
6. Cook or help prepare the merienda
7. Help look for monetary donations in support of this project
8. Help spread the word about this activity (we have materials you can repost) through your blog, FB, Twitter, email contacts, etc.
9. Allow Isang Bata to use your vehicle, especially if you have a van, for this project
10. Send us your good wishes

I hope that you’ll find the time and inclination to be part of this meaningful Christmas celebration. Let me know how you want to help so we can finalize details and tasks. And please, suggestions and comments are welcome. Nothing has been set in stone, so please send me your thoughts now. Also, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask.

This week I’m going to find out how many kids we are helping, plus iron out other details with the school. I haven’t met the principal, but I intend to visit before December 14 to do an ocular and to meet with her in person. I’m just a bit busy this week with our project for Grace to be Born Shelter. But once I’m able to wrap that one up, I’ll focus my energies on this next one! I’m super excited, and I hope you all are, as well :)

Helping the babies and mothers in the shelter, and other updates

2009-11-01T12:33:00.000-08:00

1. Isang Bata supports KaEskwela's relief mission in Binan, Laguna

Isang Bata donates 2 bags of school supplies and a balikbayan box of elementary textbooks to KaEskwela (brigadaeskwela.multiply.com) for its relief operations in Malaban Elementary School, Binan, Laguna. Big thanks to donors Ricky Chan Pe and Anna Chincuanco Bautista.

2. Turnover of breakfast items and cash to Wawa National High School

In continuation of its breakfast program to feed hungry children breakfast every school day, Isang Bata turns over a month's worth of breakfast goodies for the students of Wawa National High School. Isang Bata gives away 60 Nutrivim cereal beverage packs, 3 kilograms of Ovaltine chocolate powder drink, 3 kilograms of oatmeal, 3 kilograms of elbow macaroni, 1.5 kilograms of biscuits/crackers, plus cash to cover for perishable items like bread, eggs, soup ingredients, etc. Our gratitude to Mr. Peter Foo and Ma'am Ritchelle Yorsua for making the project possible.

We are also handing over cash to the advisers of our scholars to cover for this month's school expenses. Thank you to Peter Foo, Aze Ramos, Carol Macasaet and Chiki Agbayani.

3. Help for the babies of Grace to be Born Shelter

I went to Grace to be Born Shelter on the morning of November 1st to do an ocular to determine the needs of the babies there. I met the house mother/midwife, Isabel, and the person in charge, Rey Ortega. I also saw the 8 babies they are currently taking care of. The babies are really small, ranging from 2 months to a year old. There are 8 right now, 6 girls and 2 boys. Plus some pregnant mothers waiting for their term (i don't remember how many). The volunteer nurse there said all the babies are currently showing signs of pneumonia. :( Two babies (twins) have just been discharged from the hospital from pneumonia also.

Grace to be Born is a shelter for babies and pregnant mothers who are finding it difficult to support their pregnancy or who may want to eventually leave their child in the shelter. It's also a place for abandoned children, some of them are there waiting for the parents to come back for them. But there are others who might be put up for adoption if the parents don't get them back.

Based on the interview conducted, Isang Bata drafted a list of things that the mothers and babies need. We will be making our purchase and delivering the goods this coming week. Isang Bata thanks Carla Jimenez, Lyli Eleuterio, Angelita Sian Dizon and Evelyn Claros-Corr for their expression of help.

If you would like to support any of Isang Bata's on going projects, we will be very grateful. Please get in touch with Ime Aznar through 639164120636 or imelda.aznar@yahoo.com

Isang Bata's Relief Mission in Wawa National High School, Rodriguez, Rizal

2009-10-15T09:23:00.001-07:00

Volunteers with teachers from Wawa National High School

The students line up to receive the goods.

Everyone got snacks, too.

Stub system helped to keep order.

The children got clothes, slippers, groceries, school supplies and medicines.

Each child went home with this :)

We were able to help 60 children and their families that day.

Clothes and slippers

First aid kit for each family.

Daxx and student volunteers helping to unload the goods.

PLEASE SUPPORT Isang Bata’s relief operation for Wawa residents

2009-10-01T02:35:00.000-07:00

From Ma’am Ritchelle Yorsua of Wawa National High School: “(Maraming) students namin nawalan totally ng bahay, inagos ng baha. Washed out mga bahay malapit sa school at papunta sa dam. Walang naisalba pati damit. Nandun na lang sila sa mga gilid gilid ng Wawa. Yung iba nagtakip na lang ng lona.”

Wawa is one of the communities that Isang Bata is currently helping. This time we would like to extend whatever help we can give to those affected by the typhoon.

Ma’am Ritchelle and Ma’am Josie (another Wawa teacher) specified the following needs: food, clothing, shoes and school supplies. Classes have been suspended indefinitely but many students have already lost everything: school bags, uniforms, notebooks and other school materials.

Isang Bata will try to help by bringing abovementioned materials, plus medicines. We are also planning to have a soup kitchen during our visit. Friends from California, USA are organizing a fundraising drive for this campaign. We need more help. You can support this project by volunteering or sending donations in cash or kind. For details:

Daxx Bondoc - 09172491731
Ime Aznar – 09164120636

www.isangbata.blogspot.com

Quick Update: Isang Bata Donates to Typhoon Victims

2009-09-28T02:30:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning. Isang Bata sends 1 sack of rice, slippers and bags of clothing (blankets, jackets, towels, socks, underwear, clothes) to Citizens' Disaster Response Center for the victims of typhoon Ondoy. Currently packing more clothes for donation later today Monday, or tomorrow. I haven't heard from our friends in Wawa but I will keep trying to reach them. Meantime, everyone is encouraged to volunteer, donate and pray. You guys know where to go, there are numerous relief operations going on right now. Just choose and dive in.

I'm giving away my personal belongings

2009-09-20T17:38:00.000-07:00

For free. Or in exchange for a donation to this cause. I must be crazy.

www.librelang.multiply.com

Photos from Isang Bata's Breakfast Project

2009-09-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

Updates: Isang Bata meets with scholars, parents and teachers...

2009-09-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

...turns over donations; brings Danilo and Samuel to see Dr. Carlos Alberto; and meets with Samuel's sponsor, Mrs. Villaraza

Last September 17, Isang Bata met with the 8 scholars, their parents and their teachers in Wawa National High School in Montalban, Rizal. We turned over the following:

1. 2 big packages of infant milk formula for the 7-month old baby of Mary Ann Casiple, mother of scholar Bernadette Casiple. Donation courtesy of Arlene Manas Callejo.

2. Packets of instant noodles for the 8 families, courtesy of Arlene Manas Callejo.

3. P500 cash to Apolonia Enriquez, mother of Ryan Enriquez, to cover for his transportation expenses for one (1) month. Amount donated by Lyli Eleuterio.

4. P1500 cash to Ma'am Ritchel Yorsua who will turn over the money to the adviser of scholar Bernadette Casiple. The money, from her sponsors Anj and Lit Onrubia, will be spent for Bernadette's educational needs for one month.

Ime talking to Ma'am Ritchel Yorsua about the Breakfast Project

Isang Bata also discussed updates with Ma'am Ritchel on the ongoing Breakfast Project where we feed 30 students a simple breakfast or snack every day so they won't have to come to class hungry. Prior to this, 11 kilos of milk/chocolate drink were donated, plus a big tub of bread spread, both of these from Peter Foo, P500 cash for soup (from Isang Bata's fund), and P1,000 cash for water and bread. Everything will be for a month's worth of breakfast/snack.

Ime discusses details of scholarship with parents of scholars.

That's Ryan Enriquez walking in front of me :)

Explaining the contents of the written agreement.

I also discussed the contents of the agreement with the parents and the students, and asked them to sign the documents. Copies will be sent to their respective sponsors. Isang Bata decided that the monthly allowances of the children should best be handled by their respective class advisers. School allowance will be given on a daily basis, and cost of projects will be taken from the amount. Should there be anything left at the end of each month, the money should be turned over to the scholar's family.

Giving them time to read everything, before signing.

Even the scholars needed to read and understand the contents of the document.

Details and more details. I wish it were simpler and easier.

Jes and I took Danilo and Samuel, together with their parents, to St. Luke's for the eye checkups of the two scholars. Samuel and Danilo are both partially blind. After the checkup, we had lunch with Samuel's sponsor, Mrs. Villaraza.

This is Mang Dante and his son, Danilo.

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR BREAKFAST PROJECT And feed 30 hungry children who usually come to class with empty stomachs

2009-09-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

Hunger is a terrible condition to endure if you are a growing child. Yet at Wawa High School many children go to school hungry without breakfast. Besides that some have to walk long distances to school. Can we blame these children if they can’t pay attention in class or if they grow faint as their stomachs cry out for food ? They know that they can eat a meal only after school when they get home. Dinner is the only meal they can look forward to.

So at lunch they look at their classmates lucky enough to have lunch. If they are lucky some friends will give them a very small bite of whatever they are eating.

I am trying to start a Breakfast Feeding Project as soon as possible. This program aims at giving the identified 30 children (the “hungriest” in school) something to eat before school starts. It will be just milk and bread to start with as no funds have been found yet and I will use my own money to kickstart the Breakfast Project. Later when we have donations and funds we will improve the quality of the breakfast. Ime is organizing the practical aspects of the project and Ms. Ritchel Yorsua together with some teachers will ensure that the children get started on the Breakfast Project shortly. This initial project will last till the end of the school year March of 2010.

If you can I would appeal to you to donate to this project. Your donations however large or small will put food in the stomachs of these hungry children. This Breakfast Project will be updated here at this website. To send your donations, please get in touch with us through 09164120636 (Ime) or send an email to Imelda.aznar@yahoo.com. You can also leave a comment to this post. Thank you.

PETER FOO, Member and Supporter of ISANG BATA

Let me introduce you to 6 exceptional children

2009-09-06T12:17:00.001-07:00

I'll tell you the story of how this idea was born. A few months ago, I volunteered to assist in an arts workshop for the students of Wawa National High School in Montalban. It's a very small public high school at the foot of Bernardo Carpio's mountains in Rizal.

While I was talking with one of the locals there, he happened to tell me about this young boy who was so enthusiastic about school, and so driven to finish his high school education, despite his disability. The boy was born without any limbs. But because he was truly motivated to learn, he used a makeshift trolley (a wooden board fitted with wheels) and asked his classmates to push him to school, and to push him back home at the end of the day. (I remember wondering about how he would travel if there was no one willing to push.)

The local guy also told me that this boy sometimes went to school hungry, and without any money for food. And if it were not for some classmates who took pity on him, he wouldn't be eating the entire day.

Fast forward to around August this year. I remembered this story while we were thinking of a possible Isang Bata scholarship program to benefit underprivileged but truly deserving Filipino students. I sought out my teacher-contact from Wawa and asked her to come up with a list of students who are in dire need of help, but who, at the same time, are interested and determined to finish their schooling.

The list that Ma'am Ritchel Yorsua gave me consisted of 8 high school students. I quickly organized an interview/meet-up with the students and their parents, together with Wawa teachers and advisers, plus their principal. The interview was necessary to personally meet the children, assess their real needs, and learn about their stories.

Right now, I cannot even begin to think of how to tell you about the look of desperation I saw in one mother's eyes, for example. She has eleven children, no job, a sick child (probably cancer), and a 7-month old baby who only subsists on am (water from steamed rice). Or the toughness and acerbity that I strongly picked up from Rayan, that boy who was born limb-less. And the easy smile from Sam, a boy who walks 7 kilometers every single day, just to go to school. And that sometimes he doesn't eat anything before his walk, because there is absolutely nothing to eat in the house.

And that apparently, according to the teachers, this 14-kilometer daily walk is not an unusual thing among the students. And this universal daily hunger (not eating anything save for P1-chichiria from the store) and fainting during CAT are quite common, as well. Some parents can give P5 or P10 daily allowance, but how could anyone buy a decent meal with that amount?

Each of the 6 children has heart-rending stories to tell. Ma'am Yorsua has chosen well. I would like you meet these beautiful children whom all of us, hopefully, can start helping today.

1. Rayan, 14 years old. He was born without forearms and lower legs (from the knees down). He tells me he doesn't want to be an artist, when I asked him if he would consider learning to be a mouth-painter: "Wala akong hilig sa mga drowing-drowing na ganyan." He wants to be a lawyer and seemed very determined to be one. Rayan strikes me as a toughie, which is just as well. I immediately sensed that he doesn't want people to pity him.

How you can help Rayan: We need someone to sponsor the daily tricycle ride to and from school. If the donor can also throw in a few pesos more to make sure he has a healthy baon for school, it would make a world of difference.

2. Bernadette, 16 years old. She has 10 other siblings, 7 of them go to school as well. Her father is a jeepney driver, and her mother sometimes go up the mountains (nangangalakal) to pick whatever she can sell in town, like papayas or gabi (taro). Her father has already donated a kidney. She has a sister who could be sick of cancer, but her parents couldn't send her to a hospital for proper diagnosis (transportation money is a big deal for their family). Her youngest sibling, a 7 month old baby, doesn't drink infant milk. Instead, her mother feeds the baby am, which is water from boiling rice.

How you can help Bernadette: A donor can pay for her daily allowance and school projects, until she finishes high school. She is now in her second year. If she finishes high school, at least, her whole family has a better chance at survival.

3. Sam, 12 years old. When he was a year old, a pointed object struck his eye while playing with his siblings and damaged it completely. He went through an operation but he still lost his vision in one eye. The doctor asked them to go back after 11 years to see if something could still be done to restore his vision. This visit is long overdue, but his mother cannot pay for this checkup and the possible treatment/therapy because she has 8 other children to feed. Like many other students in Wawa, Sam walks 7 kilometers to school every day, and another 7 kilometers to his house after school.

How you can help Sam: Get him a good pair of slippers for walking, and shoes for school. Or donate cash to make sure Sam eats a healthy breakfast everyday before he leaves the house, for energy and better concentration. Or if you are (or know of) an eye doctor, you can probably take a look at his eye, and give medical advice.

4. Jericho. I did not meet Jericho but it was a couple of teachers who convinced me to get him on the list. According to his teachers, Jericho is a very diligent student, but he could not come to school regularly because he has to sometimes work for his family when his parents are indisposed. He also goes up to the mountains to pick produce, or carry sacks of coal for selling. Jericho probably lives the farthest because no one could tell me exactly just how far his house is. The answer I got was more like a surreal tale, except of course I believe it to be true: Jericho would apparently start walking home when school is dismissed but would still not reach his home very late into the night. He would then end up spending the night at someone's house, and resume his travel home at daybreak.

How you can help Jericho: His teachers say that regular daily allowance would go a long way, and some money for food and school projects. A donor who has more money to spare can probably help the family eat decently as well, so Jericho won't have to miss school. I am also at a loss as to how we can help with his "travel". If you have any ideas, please, let me know.

5. Lino, 18 years old. Lino did not make it to our meeting, but here are the facts I gathered about him. His father is dead, and his mother had gone missing. He is now under the care of a guardian, but like everyone else, he is in urgent need of financial assistance so he can graduate from high school.

How you can help Lino: Donor can contribute money for his daily allowance and school expenses.

6. Christine, 14 years old. Christine did not make it as well to the interview because her father, who is sick with cancer, needed medical attention and Christine had to stay and help out. Christine's mother works as a housemaid.

How you can help Christine: Considering the medical expenses of her family, Christine struggles with school-related expenses. Her sponsor could give her daily allowance and some cash for school projects.

There are two other children, John and Danilo. We already got a sponsor for John, so I'm not including his story here anymore. As for Danilo, I wasn't able to meet him personally nor ask for more information about him due to lack of time. But I will get details and appeal for help on his behalf soon, as well.

HOW MUCH? It doesn't take a lot of money to change these children's lives and give them a chance at a better future. If a donor can afford P1,500 a month, that amount would be ideal. If not, I think P1,000 a month can cover a child's daily allowance, breakfast and school projects.

YOUR DONATION WILL DIRECTLY GO TO THE CHILDREN/FAMILY, UP TO THE LAST CENTAVO. One of the items on the agenda during our meeting with the children, parents and teachers was the logistics with regards to sending the children's allowance. We have agreed on a system that ensures that all of the donated money will go directly to the family, and will be spent on the sponsored child's education.

There will be monthly updates from the parent/s, performance checks with the children's advisers and teachers, and direct communication between the donor and the sponsored child. In other words, a donor has three ways to check for improvement or updates: through the parents, the children themselves, and the children's teachers and advisers.

Every sponsorship comes with a commitment from the children and their families that the sponsored child will do his/her best to finish high school, and that the parents will support this vision.

PLEASE HELP THESE CHILDREN BY BEING A SPONSOR/DONOR, OR BY PASSING THIS MESSAGE ON. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

Isang Bata Meets With Scholars

2009-09-06T11:25:00.000-07:00

Peter Foo sponsors one Isang Bata scholar, John Cedrick. Shown here with his mother, Rowena.

Interviewing Rayan, born physically impaired but enthusiastic about school and life. He is determined to be a lawyer someday.

Talking to Sam. His left eye is blind (due to an accident when he was a baby). He also walks a total of 14 kilometers a day just to be able to attend his classes.

Isang Bata's Peter Foo with Wawa National High School's principal and English teacher, Ms. Ritchel Yorsua.

What a child's work should look like

2009-08-16T02:51:00.000-07:00

This is how our children's work should look like.

Not like this.

Please do what you can to help our underprivileged children. Whatever we can do together at Isang Bata, is already a good start. Email me at imelda.aznar@yahoo.com with your idea of how you want to help.

A CELEBRATION OF PLAY. PLAYDAY PHILIPPINES 2009.

2009-08-04T05:44:00.000-07:00

I helped a friend, Connie Macatuno, organize this event for Saturday, August 8. It's called Playday Philippines 2009 (see playday.org.uk for reference on its origins). Playday is the annual celebration of children's right to play. And for the Philippines, we are holding it on Saturday at the football field inside Philamlife Subdivision in Quezon City.

The children will get to play with their parents and with other children. There will be directed play where children are inspired to use their imagination and creativity, a storytelling session and puppet show that will teach important values and fire up their imagination at the same time, a potluck lunch, free play, some singing, picture taking and lots of good fun and laughter!

For its first run on Saturday, the event will be by invitation only. But Connie and I will definitely bring mini Playday events to different communities through Isang Bata. This is only the beginning.

For Sale: Brand New Induction Cooker for Php 30,000 (cash or terms)

2009-07-29T13:29:00.000-07:00

A sponsor donated this induction cooker to Isang Bata, so I need to sell it to be able to use the money for future projects. PLEASE SUPPORT THE CHILDREN WE ARE HELPING BY HELPING ME LOOK FOR POSSIBLE BUYERS :)

Owner hasn't used this because he already has another high-tech cooker in his home. He only plugged it once to test it. Product is still in original box and is in mint condition. And since we are going to use the money for future projects for the children, I and the owner have agreed to sell it on installment, since it's quite pricey :)

If interested,
Email me: imelda.aznar@yahoo.com
Or text me: 0916.4120636

Here are the specs:

* This induction cooker is very to clean because the top is totally flat.
* The switches and buttons are fully touch sensitive, it also includes a safety lock button for added safety.
* It has an overheat protection sensor; it automatically cuts off power when excessive heat is detected.
* Very environment friendly and energy safe, healthier than a microwave oven. It induces current to heat up the metal pot directly.

For more information on the product, you can visit website www.inex2u.com

Conference on children's developmental disorders

2009-07-27T15:15:00.001-07:00

A doctor friend of mine from the Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics is requesting everyone to spread the word about this convention, for the benefit of those who might have the need to attend this. Please feel free to re-post this announcement. Thank you.

= = =

The Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics announces its 5th BIENNIAL CONVENTION entitled “DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS: Challenging and Controversial Issues Across the Lifespan”.

Topics include “The State of the Disabled Child in the Philippines: Challenges and Opportunities”, “The Hypotonic Infant: Approach to Diagnosis and Management, “Feeding Problems and Dysfunctions in Infants with Developmental Disorders”, The Hyperactive Toddler: Drawing the Line Between Disorder and Normal Temperament”, “The Toddler with Specific Language Delay: Distinguishing Between Developmental Lag and Disorder”, “The Medicated ADHD Child in School: Issues and Practice Guidelines”, “Social Skill Deficits of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Regular School”, “ The Wrath of Math: Helping Children Overcome Math Difficulties”, “The Teen with ADHD: Drawing the Line Between Disorder & Co-morbidities”, “Sexuality & Reproductive Health Issues of Adolescents with Developmental Disorders”, “Mentally Challenged Teen: Life After School”.

This will be held on August 31 and September 1, 2009 at the Mandarin Oriental Suites Gateway Mall, Araneta Center, Quezon City. Conference fee is P2,000 on or before August 1, 2009. On-site registration fee is P2,500. For more information, contact: Dr. Stella Guerrero Manalo, Telefax – 633-6686/ 0926-432-5147.

The Philippine Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics was formed in September 1999 with its mission to lead in partnership with key stakeholders in empowering families, advocating health policies through quality training and research, and working towards a responsive society that protects and nurtures every Filipino child’s full potential.

Consistent with its main objective to promote the science and art of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, the society announces its 5th BIENNIAL CONVENTION entitled “DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS: Challenging and Controversial Issues Across the Lifespan”.

This will be held on August 31 and September 1, 2009 at the Mandarin Oriental Suites Gateway Mall, Araneta Center, Quezon City. Conference fee is P2,000 on or before August 1, 2009. On-site registration fee is P2,500. For more information, contact: Dr. Stella Guerrero Manalo, Telefax – 633-6686/ 0926-432-5147.

Our list of donors and supporters

2009-07-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

After the success of our Back to School project for the benefit of 140 school children of Sikatvill, Muntinlupa, Isang Bata would like to give BIG THANKS and WARM HUGS to our friends, supporters and donors:

Arlene Brosas of Akap Bata, Peter Foo, Jes and Bowi Aznar, Betty Uy-Regala, Mick Enrique, Mike Sicam and Isa Garcia, Randy Aquino, Chot Chavez, Maroz de Mesa, Jaymie Divinagracia, Irene Chia, Junji Lerma, Karts Guerrero, Rossana Unson and friends, Ruth and Nonoy Floresca, Yasmin Ortiga, Ryan Balingit, Lisa and Jeffrey Penano, Beth de Leon, Ann and Sonny Agustin, Blue Star Workers Labor Union.

Denise, Cholo and Mar Mendoza, Iten and Bob del Rosario, Nikki Diyco, Arleen and Dean delos Santos, Janet Babara, Jenny and DJ Guinto, Jenny Weinekke, BAS Batch 90: Don Cortes, Che Fernandez, Maricar, Anne Pagaduan, Marco Abelardo, Jason, Minnie & Nina Jumaquio, Jojie Recto, Jonathan Lino, Geey Afinidad, Cooki Macatol, Poteet and Tiger Gimenez, Yettie Dalmacio.

Pictures from our back-to-school program in Sikatvill, Muntinlupa

2009-07-12T03:48:00.000-07:00

Ime, Dino, Arlene, Peter, Jes and Bowi went to Sikatvill, Muntinlupa last July 10 to distribute school supplies to 140 daycare schoolchildren. The children were also served some merienda: pancit, spring rolls and cereal drinks.

LIBRE KA BA SA JULY 18? PUNTA NA SA CUBAO X.

2009-07-11T23:08:00.000-07:00

may free concert ang the wuds, itchyworms, pedicab, ciudad, markus highway, purplechickens at marami pang ibang banda sa cubao x sa july 18.

beneficiary ang ISANG BATA (www.isangbata.blogspot.com) ng concert na ito. pero dahil libre nga yung concert, magsesetup lang kami ng donation box para sa mga damit, laruan, mga libro at iba pang mga donasyon na gusto ninyong ibigay sa mga batang mahihirap ng Maynila. pwede ring magbigay ng cash.

may isesetup din kaming mini photo exhibit mula sa proyekto noong july 10 sa sikatvill muntinlupa. ito ay ang back to school project ng ISANG BATA kung saan may 140 bata ang nabigyan ng mga gamit sa eskuwelahan.

inaanyayahan po namin kayong pumunta sa concert at magdala ng donations. o kung gusto naman ninyong maging parte ng aming maliit na grupo, pwede rin kayong mag signup sa gabing iyon bilang volunteer. imbitahan din sana ninyo ang inyong mga contacts at kaibigan na dumaan sa cubao sa july 18. MARAMING SALAMAT!

Welcome, Peter!

2009-07-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

Dino and I recently met with our latest Isang Bata volunteer, Mr. Peter Foo. Welcome aboard, Peter!

The Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009

2009-07-02T17:48:00.000-07:00

BACKGROUND

Senate Bill No. 2317 entitled "An Act Prohibiting Child Pornography, Imposing Penalties for the Commission Thereof and for Other Purposes" passed the Third and Final Reading last November 24, 2008. All Senators unanimously voted for the approval. The Bill has been forwarded to the lower house for concurrence.

In the House of Representatives, House Bill No.644o entitled "An Act Defining the Crime of Child Pornography, Prescribing Penalties Thereof, and for Other Purposes" has passed First Reading. The Committee on Justice, Committee on the Welfare of Children and Committee on Appropriations has reviewed and forwarded the same for consideration by the Plenary for Second Reading. Once the lower house version has passed Second and Third Reading, a bi-cameral session will be held to come-up with a consolidated version of the Senate Bill and House Bill.

An Open Letter to the President has been finalized by the Core Group on Child Pornography of the Sub-Committee on Sexual Abuse and Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (SC SACSEC) under the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC).

Intended to be printed on the Philippine Daily Inquirer on 26 July 2009, (a day before the State of the Nation Address [SONA]), this letter is calling for a Presidential Certification of the Anti-Pornography Act of 2009 as a priority bill of this administration.

Here is a copy of the open letter.

AN OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO

Dear Madame President,

We, the concerned organizations and individuals working for children’s rights and welfare, strongly appeal for the consideration of the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009 as a priority bill for passage during your administration.

Senate Bill No. 2317 entitled “An Act Prohibiting Child Pornography, Imposing Penalties for the Commission Thereof and for Other Purposes" passed the Third and Final Reading last November 24, 2008. All Senators unanimously voted for the approval. This Bill has been forwarded to the lower house for concurrence.

In the House of Representatives, House Bill No.6440 entitled "An Act Defining the Crime of Child Pornography, Prescribing Penalties Thereof, and for Other Purposes" has passed First Reading. As of May 28, 2009, the Committee on Justice, Committee on the Welfare of Children and Committee on Appropriations has reviewed and forwarded the same for consideration by the Plenary for Second Reading.

Child Pornography is a grave violation of the Rights of the Child. The use of children and young people in pornographic materials demeans their intrinsic worth and dignity as human beings. It reduces them into commercial sexual objects. The internet is the new playground for pedophiles and sex offenders who lure and groom children into becoming victims of child pornography.

We commend the Government of the Philippines ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child Pornography and other relevant international instruments and treaties. However, the continued proliferation of child pornography in the Philippines and around the world indicates that more action needs to be taken. The absence of a comprehensive law to prevent and respond to child pornography has negated most efforts to protect children and paved the way for the continued perpetuation of this crime.

As a nation, we cannot afford to lose the gains we have made for the Filipino Child. Neither can we let go of the pride we have in measuring up to the expectations of the Filipino Child. Together, we must effectively and decisively respond to the needs of the Filipino Child.

Madame President, we reiterate our appeal for the certification of the Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009 as a priority bill of the Administration.

In the best interest of the Filipino Child,

Lunduyan para sa Pagpapalaganap, Pagtataguyod at Pagtatanggol ng Karapatang Pambata

SPREAD THE WORD AND/OR HELP GENERATE PLEDGES IN WHATEVER AMOUNT WITHIN THE NEXT 10 DAYS BEGINNING JULY 01 FOR THE PRINTING.

Deposit pledges to:
Metrobank 20th Avenue Branch
Acct: # 7-320-50470-4

Fax deposit slip with full name and contact number of depositor to: 9117867
Lunduyan will immediately acknowledge and send you a copy of the receipt.

Lunduyan para sa Pagpapalaganap, Pagtataguyod at Pagtatanggol ng Karapatang Pambata(Lunduyan)
Chair, Sub-Committee on Sexual Abuse and Commercial Exploitation of Children (SC SACSEC)
c/o: Irene Fonacier Fellizar – 09175312252 or Nelia Dychinco Sevidal – 09206349841

LAST CALL FOR DONATIONS

2009-06-29T04:11:00.000-07:00

We will be distributing the goods to the Sikatvill school kids on July 10. And we will be accepting donations until tomorrow, June 30. So if you plan to share, please get in touch with me or Dino to arrange pick up or drop off details.

The kids we are helping swelled from 40 to more than 100. The daycare center in Sikatvill is said to be absorbing some of the children who belong to the demolished communities by the railroad tracks. Initially, we thought of conducting a daily feeding program for a month. But due to the latest developments, we will most probably use the cash to make sure all 100+ children get their school supplies.

First things first: I would like to thank (a million times over) the numerous people who have helped by giving money, giving food, giving supplies, expertise, moral support, kind words and encouragement. I can't name everyone right now, there are too many, but you know who you are. The children will surely be very grateful and happy for your help.

In case there are people who want to extend last minute help, we need more of these: envelope bags, notebooks, pad paper, eraser, crayons, ruler, paste/glue, water color, ballpens, scissors, milk packs, water bottles, short brown envelopes and short plastic envelopes.

We also plan to give the children some snacks during the event. We will be serving milk (thanks to Maroz) and, most probably, sandwiches. If anyone wants to sponsor the food, we will be grateful. Right now we need about 30 milk packs (single serve), and about a hundred servings of sandwiches :)

If you want to join us on Friday, please don't be shy and come! Extra hands are always welcome. Besides, Dino and I are nice people :)

Finally, I'm excited to announce that we have a couple of new activities up our sleeves. One of them is a pretty regular and mobile event that aims to entertain and nourish underprivileged Filipino children. We will be meeting with a new partner over the weekend to finalize details. We are certainly hoping that more people will volunteer their time, expertise or resources so we can extend more help to more children.

Please come to this concert and bring your donations for Isang Bata

2009-06-26T02:15:00.001-07:00

Reposting a news article from the BBC

2009-06-21T00:20:00.000-07:00

WORLD HUNGER 'HITS ONE BILLION'

One billion people throughout the world suffer from hunger, a figure which has increased by 100 million because of the global financial crisis, says the UN.

The UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) said the figure was a record high.

Persistently high food prices have also contributed to the hunger crisis.

The director general of the FAO said the level of hunger, one-sixth of the world's population, posed a "serious risk" to world peace and security.

The UN said almost all of the world's undernourished live in developing countries, with the most, some 642 million people, living in the Asia-Pacific region.

In sub-Saharan Africa, the next worst-hit region, the figure stands at 265 million.

Just 15 million people are left hungry in the developed world.

"The silent hunger crisis - affecting one-sixth of all of humanity - poses a serious risk for world peace and security," said Jacques Diouf.

"We urgently need to forge a broad consensus on the total and rapid eradication of hunger in the world and to take the necessary actions."

'Contradiction'

The increase in the number of hungry people was blamed on lower incomes and increased unemployment, which in turn reduced access to food by the poor, the UN agency said.

But it contrasted sharply with evidence that much of the developed world is richer than ever before.

"It's the first time in human history that we have so many hungry people in the world," said FAO spokesman Kostas Stamoulis, director of the organisation's development department.

"And that's a contradiction, because a lot of the world is very rich despite the economic crisis."

Mr Diouf urged governments to provide development and economic assistance to boost agriculture, particularly by smallholder farmers.

"Investment in agriculture must be increased because for the majority of poor countries a healthy agricultural sector is essential to overcome poverty and hunger and is a pre-requisite for overall economic growth," he said.

Urban suffering

The UK's international development ministry (Dfid) said the figures were "a scandal" and said it was helping some of the poorest farmers in the world to boost the amount of food they produce.

"In the last year we have pledged more than £900 million to lift millions out of hunger to help farmers boost agriculture production," a Dfid spokesman said.

The UN warns that poor people living in cities will probably face the most severe problems in coping with the global recession, because lower export demand and reduced foreign investment are likely to hit urban jobs harder.

Many migrants to urban areas would be likely to return to rural areas, it added, transferring the burden.

Incomes have also dropped "substantially" in some developing countries where families depend on remittances from relatives working abroad.

With the financial crisis hitting all parts of the world more or less simultaneously, developing countries have less room to adjust, the UN agency says.

Food prices

Among the pressures is the reality that borrowing from international capital markets is "more limited" in a global crisis, the FAO said.

Food costs in developing countries now seem more expensive, despite prices in world markets declining during the food and fuel crisis of 2006-08, it added.

They remained on average 24% higher in real terms by the end of 2008 compared to 2006.

"For poor consumers, who spend up to 60% of their incomes on staple foods, this means a strong reduction in their effective purchasing power," the FAO said.

Press release for back-to-school project

2009-06-13T06:05:00.000-07:00

Project launched to help poor preschool children go to school

14 June 2009, Quezon City – The month of June in the country signifies the start of the school year. But for many underprivileged preschool children in the metropolis like Muntinlupa, their education will take a backseat for necessities such as food and rent (shelter). This situation contributes to the spinning of the poverty cycle.

Send-a-Child-to-School project was launched to address the formal education needs of 40 disadvantaged children, initially, from an urban poor community in Muntinlupa. Send-a-Child-to-School is spearheaded by Ime Aznar in partnership with Akap Bata Sectoral Organization, under its Early Childhood Care and Development Program. The program focuses on curriculum and materials development, training, repairs and maintenance of day care centers, and nutrition.

“As a resident of the city and a mother to a four-year-old boy, the difference between my own child and those children I see out on the streets are depressingly stark. There must be something we can do aside from feel bad,” Aznar says. “If we are able to help one child, we would have made a difference in the life of one child. And that is a lot better than not making any difference at all,” she adds.

Akap Bata has identified Sikatvill, Muntinlupa as one of its priority communities. Sixty percent of the kids in the local Akap Bata daycare center are malnourished and have parents who work as factory workers in the city.

For its initial phase, Send-a-Child-to-School calls on people to help Sikatvill, Muntinlupa preschool children in four ways: (1) donate items like school supplies, clothes, shoes, bags, storybooks, art materials, and nutritious food items like milk during the school year; (2) volunteer to help in the project; (3) spread the word to your friends and contacts; (4) donate money for the feeding program of the project which entails providing nutritious food to the kids every day. Scheduled drop-off points for donations and other details can be found on isangbata.blogspot.com.

Studies show that early childhood development leads to important outcomes. The Infant Health Development Program (IHDP), for one, showed that children exposed to the program at a longer period had higher intelligence quotient (IQ) vis-à-vis children who had a shorter exposure period to the program. IHDP is a research of Child Trends, a nonprofit, nonpartisan research center in Washington, DC, USA that conducts studies on children at all stages of development.

In the Philippine setting, Akap Bata (in its website) states that 64 percent of Filipino children do not experience or attend pre schools, daycare centers and other non-formal preparatory education despite a law requiring all barangays to operate at least one daycare center.

Poor schoolchildren need milk, art materials and storybooks! Deadline is extended to June 30.

2009-06-09T21:04:00.000-07:00

Poor schoolchildren need milk, art materials and storybooks! Deadline is extended to June 30.

ISANG BATA will be accepting donations until June 30, 2009. We are specifically asking for children’s storybooks, art materials like clay, art paper, crayons, etc., and milk! About 60% of the kids we’re helping are malnourished. We want to give them a supply of milk for daily consumption in school to help keep them alert, active and generally healthy. Cash and other kinds of donations are most welcome. For drop off and pick up arrangements, please get in touch with Ime Aznar or Dino Narciso through:

Ime – 0916.4120636; imelda.aznar@yahoo.com
Dino – 0905.2548486; bike_ko@yahoo.com

OTHER UPDATES:

Cash donations have reached P8,000 from the following: Jaymie Divinagracia, Mick Enrique, Irene Chia, Beth de Leon, Nikki Diyco, Janet Barbara and Jenny Weineke. We also received school supplies and other items from Karts Guerrero, Jason Jumaquio, Iten del Rosario, Jojie Recto, Jenny Guinto and Maroz de Mesa.

We gave medicines to the mother of a 9 mo. old baby girl named Andrea Tiu. Andrea has wounds all over her body which was diagnosed as mamaso. The doctor from the health center prescribed four kinds of medicines. Tiu’s mother, Benjie, used to be a manicurista, and her father is in jail. They used to have a shanty along the railroad tracks in Muntinlupa, but the community was recently demolished. Since then, the mom hasn’t been able to make money and constantly worries about where the next meal will come from. They currently don’t have a permanent residence and her children, and all the other children from that community, are exposed to the rains and the sun on a daily basis. Benjie wrote a letter to ask for help for her sick daughter. Arlene from Akap Bata showed me the letter and I decided to use some of the money to buy Andrea’s medicines. Andrea has three other school-aged siblings. Isang Bata will make sure to give some school supplies to them also.

I sat down last June 8 with Arlene from Akap Bata to discuss distribution of donations. We decided that since tuition is free and most of the kids just walk to school, we will use the cash donations to support their nutrition. Arlene told me that about 60% of the kids are malnourished. We would like to use the money to address that. The plan is to sponsor their daily snacks and provide nutritious alternatives like fortified muffins, porridge, etc. If we get more cash donations, we can do this for a longer period.

There are other items being worked out like the press release, the next project for the demolished community, corporate solicitations, etc. but it would be premature if I’m going to post details at this point. So that will have to wait until the next update entry.

Please keep the donations coming. We really need all the help we can get. If you would like to join us or send suggestions, please don’t hesitate to do so. Thank you, all.

PLEASE KEEP THEM COMING

2009-06-02T14:35:00.000-07:00

ISANG BATA UPDATE
June 3, 2009

Please keep them coming

We are less than two weeks from the deadline and while we have received numerous donations and pledges already, we still need more so we can help more children. So far, 3 people have given cash donations and more have pledged to give before the June 15 deadline. Around 3 people have also given stuff for the 40 preschool kids we're helping this year, and yes, more than 10 people have pledged to give something before the deadline as well! Hopefully, I can publish the donors' names in my next entry. It's really heartwarming and encouraging to see all these individuals who are willing to share what they have so poor children can have an education.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO DONATED AND THOSE WHO HAVE PROMISED TO GIVE SOMETHING. MANY THANKS TO THOSE WHO ARE SPREADING THE WORD AND THOSE WHO ENCOURAGE AND INSPIRE US THROUGH WORDS AND KIND THOUGHTS.

Big thanks to my partner Dino who's been tireless in collecting and picking up stuff. And to Karts Guerrero who has expressed her intention to join our little group here. Welcome, Karts! Gratitude to Betty, too, for helping me reach more people through her media contacts. We will definitely put up a PR plan for Isang Bata. Finally, thank you Arlene of Akap Bata for providing me with all the information I have requested.

Aside from the school kids in Muntinlupa, we might also be able to help a few students from Payatas in case we have extra items to give away. So really, we need more people to give so we can extend support to more needy children. Dondon Lanuza, an OFW on deathrow in Saudi Arabia, also sent us a message asking for help for his two school-aged children who are living here in the Philippines. We will do our best to allocate something for his little angels. Let me just mention here that Mr. Lanuza has been wrongly convicted and that his actions were made purely in self defense. He sent me numerous (!) documents including news writeups and court papers to prove that he's legit.

The small team of Isang Bata will be sitting down late this week to iron out the distribution details. If you're interested to join the current campaign or any of the future ones, please don't hesitate to drop me a line.

Here is a listing of the items that we need more of:

school bags
shoes and slippers
socks
towels
water bottles
children's books
toiletries including insect repellent, soap, shampoo, toothpaste, baby powder
grooming stuff like combs, headbands and hair elastics, toothbrushes
food items for baon like juices and biscuits
raincoats and umbrellas
medicines for children's cough and cold

Plus, of course, cash donations are welcome. We will be using the money to ensure that children can come to school and continue their studies even when their parents don't have baon money or cash for school projects and other school needs.

Please send all donations before June 15, 2009. For pickup or drop off arrangements, please coordinate with us through:

Ime 09164120636, imelda.aznar@yahoo.com
Dino 09052548486, bike_ko@yahoo.com
website: isangbata.blogspot.com

Project update

2009-05-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

Relying solely on word of mouth and social networks (I haven't had time to really send out announcements yet), Dino and I have received quite a number of inquiries, encouragement and expressions of commitment (to donate). Not the actual donations yet, but all these are good of course.

Together with a couple of friends over lunch, I also made a lineup of possible future projects and fund raising activities to benefit Filipino children. Maybe 3 more projects this year would be ideal. And for personal reasons, I'm sure there will be a simple outreach program in July :)

We are also in the process of gathering more in-depth materials about this project's beneficiaries and community so we can come up with a more streamlined program, the mechanics actually, on how to distribute the goods. That, and to be able to create more compelling communication for prospective donors.

Overall, we're off to a good start.

Please don't hesitate to send me a message (0916.4120636) if you want to join our efforts, ask about anything or make a donation.

Feel free to copy and forward this

2009-05-23T12:08:00.001-07:00

One child at a time

2009-05-22T21:08:00.000-07:00

I've long wanted to do something for the children. As a resident of the city and a mother to a 4-year old boy, the difference between my own child and those children I see out on the streets are depressingly stark. But even before my own child was born, I have always had a soft spot for the poor children I see on the streets of Manila. I always say to myself, there must be something we can do aside from feel bad or even weep. This is not to judge, but I honestly do not understand how people can bear to see these kids and just turn a blind eye. How well-off parents can only look after the welfare of their own children, but not care about other people's children. We all know it's not right. We are one, aren't we? And we all know we can't wait for the government to reach out to every single child who needs help. As a sane human being, it makes perfect sense to want to help and do our part. It's simply not right to just watch. Especially if you have the means to help.

I don't have any idea where to start, or how to do it, or what to do. I don't have money to give away. But I realize that if I allow my ignorance and financial limitations to stop me, I will end up not doing anything. So blindly but with huge faith, I'm embarking on a small project to help send a few underprivileged students to school this year. It doesn't matter if I make P500 or P5million, or if I get a pair of shoes or trucks of donations. As my son told me this morning as I explained this project to him, "Eh di tayo na lang magbigay sa kanila, mama." The important thing is to make sure everything gets to the children, or the child. If we are able to help one child, we would have made a difference in the life of one child. And that is a lot better than not making any difference at all.

I talked to a friend, Dino Narciso, whom I know has always been willing to help children. He expressed his enthusiasm for the project. He might be bringing two other friends to help, too. I also met with Arlene, an old friend and now the director of Akap-Bata (a non-government organization serving children's communities) and we decided to work together on this particular endeavor. I also asked my PR-savvy friend Betty Regala to send her ideas on how to get donations. My husband, Jes Aznar, is lending his pictures and helping me layout stuff. Natalie Goldberg (yes, that Natalie) also helped a great deal. A line from her book Long Quiet Highway inspires me everyday: You don't wait for someone to join you. If you want to do something, you just go ahead and do it. Even if it means doing it alone.

I'm not doing it alone, after all. And hopefully, as this campaign gets rolling, more people will help by joining, donating, spreading the word, or by simply thinking good thoughts about us and our projects, and especially about the poor children who need our help.

So many children need help. There is so much to be done. Please help and let us do it one child at a time.