Create More Child Safe Schools in the Philippines

The Child Safe Schools initiative began in 2022 with the goal of strengthening the capacity of school communities to lead in protecting children both inside and outside the school. From its initial rollout, the program has grown significantly and now includes 41 school partners working together toward safer learning environments. This milestone reflects a steadily expanding network committed to child protection and welfare.

One of the stories from the program comes from Chris Llave, a school head at Leandro Panganiban Sr. Tagumpay High School in Pola, Oriental Mindoro, who has served in education for 26 years. As part of the Child Safe Schools implementation in their area, he shared that their school initially faced challenges due to limited knowledge on child protection practices. However, through the guidance and support of ABS-CBN Foundation, they were able to improve systems and create safer spaces for children.

Now leading his school, Chris emphasizes the importance of sustaining and strengthening these initiatives. He has witnessed how some learners drift off track when proper guidance is lacking, reinforcing his commitment to ensure that child protection policies and programs are not just implemented, but serve as stepping stones toward clearer, safer, and more supportive pathways for every child.