In a powerful convergence of disaster readiness and child welfare advocacy, Davao Region is taking decisive steps to safeguard its most vulnerable. This follows a tragic incident and underscores a renewed commitment to community safety.
A Call to Arms for Child Safety
The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Davao Region (DSWD-Davao) has issued a compelling call for unity, stressing that the duty to protect Filipino children is a responsibility shared by all sectors of society. The message was delivered by DSWD Regional Director Rhuelo Dalilis Aradanas during the launch of the National Children’s Month (NCM) 2025 celebration on November 3, 2025, at the DSWD Regional Office in Davao City.
With the theme “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban,” Director Aradanas expressed deep concern for children confronting unprecedented threats. He highlighted the rapid evolution of online sexual abuse, exploitation, manipulation, and cyber risks, which are outpacing society's capacity to counter them effectively.
“The fight for the well-being and rights of the children is a strong call. It should be reflected in each action, decision and policy,” Aradanas stated. He emphasized that for parents, teachers, and social workers, love alone is insufficient. “It needs discipline, right guidance, and correct information.”
He firmly reaffirmed the agency's commitment to ensuring every Filipino child can grow up in an environment where their dignity is honored, their voice is respected, and their safety is guaranteed. “We will not tolerate abuse because we will not allow fear, shame, or silence to win,” Aradanas declared.
Proactive Disaster Preparedness in Action
Parallel to the child protection advocacy, Davao City is actively bolstering its disaster preparedness. This proactive approach gains heightened significance following the recent tragedy at Mini Asik-Asik Falls in Calinan, where several individuals lost their lives after being swept away by water.
In a demonstration of community-wide readiness, the Davao City Government, via the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), executed a large-scale flood simulation exercise. The drill targeted barangays situated along the Davao River, focusing on practical response protocols.
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, a family was among the participants in the third river-wide flood drill. This activity was organized by the Barangay 19-B Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (BDRRMO) at a covered court near the riverbank of El Rio Vista Village in Bacaca, Davao City.
Barangay officials and residents actively engaged in the simulation, using the opportunity to familiarize themselves with officially designated evacuation areas and emergency procedures.
Building a Unified Front for a Safer Future
The simultaneous focus on child protection and disaster readiness paints a clear picture of Davao Region's holistic approach to safety. The National Children’s Month, observed every November, serves to recognize the crucial role of children in nation-building and to promote their fundamental rights to survival, development, protection, and participation.
In line with this, DSWD continues to strengthen its programs and partnerships. The goal is twofold: to shield children from all forms of abuse and exploitation, and to cultivate safe, nurturing, and empowering environments where they can truly thrive.
These concerted efforts from both social welfare and disaster management offices highlight a community determined to learn from past incidents and build a more resilient and secure future for all its citizens, especially the children.
