Some 36 children of varied ages region wide poured out their concerns, in a Regional Children’s Congress organized by the DSWD Field Office Eight recently.

 Held at Leyte Park Resort Hotel in Tacloban City, the Congress is a yearly activity that aims to feel the pulse of the young generation, their aspirations, hopes, and dreams, and best of all, problems besetting them in our society.

 John Paul, 13 years old of Juan Villablanca National High School in Pastrana Leyte, and a recipient of the DSWD’s PANTAWID PAMILYANG PILIPINO PROGRAM (a conditional cash transfer scheme for health/nutrition and educational assistance) said that the congress gave him the “opportunity to meet new friends the government’s social protection program, he emphasized that now, “lumaki na ang aking pag-asa (I have big hope). The boy added that the government assistance enabled him to easily extend contribution for school projects.

 Eiver Villegas, 12 years old and a Grade 7 of Dulag National High School stated that the Congress helped him enhance his social skills. When asked about his opinion of what the roles and responsibilities of his parents should be, he replied- “Take good care of me, provide my needs, and to be a good example to me.”

 On the other hand, Maejoi Paragatos, also 12 years old of Leyte Progressive High School, is an abandoned child being taken cared of by the SOS Children’s Village in Tacloban City. She said today’s generation, some children lack discipline. Some do not go to school; instead, smoke, drink, and sniff rugby.

 The regionwide activity tackled topics such as Roles and Responsibilities of Parents towards their Children, and HIV-AIDS. There were also fun games and workshops.