The Davao City Youth Development Office (DCYDO), in partnership with the Mindanao Children’s Ministry Network (MCMN), conducted a one-day seminar aimed at fighting sexual abuse and exploitation of children.
As a division under the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), the DCYDO spearheads programs that empower youth leaders and child advocates in protecting their communities.
The seminar, themed around the issue of Online Sexual Abuse/Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM), targeted youth leaders such as SK officials and representatives from various organizations.
Among the participants were officials and representatives from the Davao City Youth Development Council, Pag-asa Youth Association of the Philippines, Davao City Youth for Green Environment, and Youth for Safety Organization.
Emmanual Crismas, Operations Head of DCYDO, told the City Information Office on Monday that the seminar was designed not only to raise awareness but also to empower young leaders to work with community partners for the best interests of children.
He said one of the highlights of the seminar was the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) held in the afternoon, where participants made commitments to implement strategies in their respective barangays.
He said that SK officials revealed a strong interest among youth leaders to drive the campaign by conducting localized training and awareness-raising initiatives. This means that DCYDO, together with the SK officials, will identify people in the barangay, such as Purok Leaders, who can act promptly whenever a concern arises.
“Gusto nila nga sila ang mu-capacitate sa demand generation, meaning sila ang mu-identify sa mga partners nga gusto nila i-train sa mga barangay. For example, gusto nila i-capacitate si Purok Leader, kay kung naa’y concern, si Purok Leader man ang makabalo (They want to be the ones to capacitate demand generation, meaning they are the ones to identify the partners they want to train in the barangays. For instance, they will prioritize equipping the Purok Leader with the necessary skills, as these individuals will be the first ones to know if any concerns arise),” he said.
He said that through such seminars, DCYDO hopes to build a robust network of youth-led advocacy that will play a crucial role in curbing sexual abuse and ensuring a safer environment for children across Davao City. CIO
