UNITING IN HONOR AND GRATITUDE: Bahay Pag-Asa Marks 13 Years of Transforming Young Lives

In a celebration filled with warmth, gratitude and sense of purpose, the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro led by Governor Dorothy P. Montejo-Gonzaga, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office celebrates the 13th Annual Thanksgiving and Stakeholders Recognition of Bahay Pag-Asa on April 18, 2024 at Purok 5, Sta. Maria, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro with the theme “Panagtapok, Pasidungog ug Pagpasalamat”.

For over a decade, Bahay Pag-asa, a transition and rehabilitation home for Children in Conflict with the Law (CILC) or Children at Risk (CAR), was able to develop and implement social protection services and initiatives to transform these children into psychosocially functioning individuals with changed perspectives in life. From providing a temporary shelter to empowering them through education and skills development which made significant strides in nurturing HOPE and RESILIENCE among its residents.

Governor Gonzaga represented by Provincial Administrator Lewis Jake G. Caiman expressed his heartfelt appreciation to those who have made a valuable contribution to what Bahay Pag-Asa is today. “Even though ako ang muhatag ug inspirational message, ako ang na-inspire seeing na nindot ug impact not only to the residents but also to those who are helping them… you can see na naay impact atong ginatabang sa ilaha”. He concluded his message by emphasizing the need to continue what has been initiated for the benefit of all involved individuals.

As part of the momentous celebration, the highlight of the activity lies in the recognition of the partner stakeholders and co-implementers whose unwavering support has been instrumental to the continuous improvement and success of the center.

Among the attendees were Board Member Vivencia L. Secuya, TESDA PD Abegail B. Eupena, DICT Engr. Ronilo M. Santa Cruz, Hon. Linalou Veloso of Prosecutors Office, Atty. Joynalyn Agno of RTC56, Prov’l Advisory Council Chair Hon. Mila Celarina Sotto, PG-Department Heads of the province, MSWD Officers, representatives and others. Throughout the event, some of these notable attendees even shared their heartening message.

The later part of the activity also featured inspiring testimonies from two of the previous residents, one who is now part of the Philippine Army and the other as a successful businessman. They willingly shared their experiences and imparted the lessons they learned to the children hoping that someday they would also become successful in life.

As the activity drew to a close, PG-Department Head of PSWDO Josephine M. Frasco conveyed the achievement of the Bahay Pag-Asa over the years. In her statement, “My heart is full because I’ve seen the transformation not just of the children here in Bahay Pag-asa but also its physical aspect”. She also shared how thankful she was to all the supporters who were part of it and looking forward for further improvement of the center.

As the government and its partners continuously provide full support and dedication, Bahay Pag-Asa also continues its journey of transformation to become someone’s HOME away from home. (Christelle Faith Luste, Photos by A.Dayao)