DSWD7, DOLE7 unite to strengthen efforts against child labor in Cebu

MALABUYOC, Cebu-- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Regional Field Office 7 and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-7) joined hands to strengthen efforts against child labor through an Information and Service Caravan on the Child Labor Prevention and Elimination Program in Malabuyoc town in Cebu, through DSWD’s Strategic Helpdesk for Information, Education, Livelihood, and Other Developmental (SHIELD) project.

The SHIELD project is a community-based initiative aimed at eliminating child labor, particularly its worst forms.  Its objectives include withdrawing children from child labor and provide holistic interventions; strengthen anti-child labor efforts at the local level and establish helpdesks and a local registry on child labor for referral and convergence of support services.

According to SHIELD Program Focal Person Glenda Riel, over 197 child laborers and 120 parents, who are also beneficiaries of DOLE’s TUPAD program, attended the activity at the Malabuyoc, covered court last March, this year.  The DSWD and DOLE joint event aimed to remove children from child labor, prevent new cases, and provide targeted support to affected families through localized, multi-agency services.

The event also raised awareness on child labor laws, promoted education, and offered livelihood assistance, supporting the vision of a child-labor-free Philippines. They also received free meals from food carts, groceries and other essential items.

The activity in Malabuyoc included a tree planting and the signing of a Pledge of Commitment, followed by orientations on Republic Act No. 9231, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act, and on available programs and services addressing child labor.

SHIELD program is implemented in 16 regions in the country and data showed that over 12,000 child laborers assisted from 2021 to 2024 with 3,887 minors reintegrated into their families and communities.

Child labor is a significant issue in Central Visayas, SHIELD program bared that there were 7,892 child laborers that were profiled in Central Visayas in 2025, exceeding the target of 7,560 and most of these children are from Negros Oriental, Cebu Province, Siquijor, and the Tri-City Field Office.

The agriculture sector has the highest number of child laborers, with 85,570 recorded in the DSWD Listahanan database.

 In Region 7 alone, over 12,000 child laborers have been assisted by the DSWD from 2021 to 2024 through the SHIELD Against Child Labor Program with 3,887 minors have already been reintegrated with their families and communities, while 400 child laborers received various assistance, including educational support, since 2021.

The Regional Council for the Welfare of Children–7 (RCWC-7), and member agencies of the Regional Council Against Child Labor (RCACL)in Central Visayas, including the Department of Justice Action Center–Region VII (DOJAC-7), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG-7), and the Department of Agriculture–Central Visayas (DA-7) were one in support to the local SHIELD caravan in Malabuyoc town.

 

 

Over 200 teachers to join Project 12 Summit 2026 in Cebu

CEBU CITY – Over 200 teachers from 58 pilot schools in Cebu Province, Silang, Cavite and Negros Oriental, including 43 public schools --37 elementary schools and 6 national high schools in Dumanjug, Cebu are expected to participate in the “Project 12-Summit 2026” on April 10-11, 2026 at the USJ-R Quadricentennial Bldg., Colon St., Cebu City organized by the US-based The Human Project Foundation, with the theme, “Developing A Resilient Generation.”

Joshua and Carol Pilapil, the tandem couple at the helm of The Human Project Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to developing emotionally resilient and well-rounded individuals, told Manila Standard that one of the key advocacies of the Foundation is Project 12.

“This is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to integrate EQ development as a core subject from Kinder to Grade 12 in both public and private schools, anchored on Daniel Goleman's five components of Emotional Intelligence (EQ),” bared Joshua Pilapil, a US-based Clinical Psychologist, at a media conference with the Cebu Online News Press Corps (CONPC).

Pilapil said that at the heart of Project 12 is a firm belief that education must focus not only on the mind (IQ) but also on the heart (EQ).  “If we are to raise whole persons-individuals who are not only intellectually capable but emotionally intelligent and socially responsible, we already equip every learner with self-awareness and self-regulation techniques, motivation, empathy, and strong social skills from an early age,” he added.

Carol Pilapil shared that Project 12 was officially launched in School Year 2024-2025. To date, the Foundation had implemented the Project across 58 pilot schools in Cebu Province, Silang, Cavite and Negros Oriental, including 43 public schools, with 37 elementary schools and six national high schools in Dumanjug, Cebu. 

“We have trained over 1,600 teachers serving over 36,000 students from these pilot schools, with more trainings already scheduled for other LGUs in Cebu Province, Negros Island, Davao City and Malaybalay, Bukidnon in Mindanao,” Carol said.

The rollout has been warmly received, and they are greatly encouraged by the enthusiastic response of both educators and communities. Their feedback affirms that emotional intelligence is not only needed—it is urgently essential, she noted.

Project 12 Summit 2026

Joshua and Carol saw the positive outcomes of their trainings and they have seen in students reveal a deeper truth: emotional intelligence or EQ is a lifelong skill - essential not only in the classroom, but in every environment, including the workplace.

Project 12 Summit 2026 is a gathering of these trained individuals and leaders to share their learnings and best practices as they navigate in their fields, be it in the academe, local governance, medical and healthcare systems and even in daily life interactions.

“In response to this growing need, we have opened the training component of Project 12 to companies seeking to invest in the EQ development of their employees. This expansion enables us to help build resilient, people-centered organizations that value empathy, self-awareness, and meaningful human connection,” Joshua and Carol shared.

It is noteworthy to share, Carol bared that they have also trained doctors and other professionals, equipping them to cope more effectively with the high-pressure demands of their fields, and by embedding emotional intelligence into both learning and leadership.

Carol added that The Human Project Foundation wants to enhance emotional intelligence (EI) through education and aims to integrate EI into the education system from kindergarten to 12th grade. This initiative is anchored on a research by Daniel Goleman and UNESCO's 2004 vision highlighting EI's significance.

Goleman’s research proved that 80% of success predictors are EI or EQ, not IQ. A meta-analysis of 500 studies in 24 countries showed improved societal outcomes. The Castle framework, adapted for education, includes self-awareness, self-regulation, responsible decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness.

The goal is to reduce issues like pregnancy, suicide, and behavioral problems by 2030, through the development and implementation of modules on emotional intelligence and healthy coping skills for students from kindergarten to 12th grade, to help them become more self-aware, regulate their emotions, and make better choices in life,” Joshua and Carol shared.

“Through Project 12 Summit 2026, The Human Project Foundation will be able to measure and analyze the impact of the emotional intelligence program on academic performance and behavioral issues of the participating students, and use the data to advocate for the adoption of the program in more schools across the Philippines,” Carol added.

 

 

Silliman launches Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy Program

DUMAGUETE CITY – Silliman University, through the Institute of Rehabilitative Sciences (IRS) announces the initial offering of the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (BSOT) program, targeted for Academic Year 2026–2027 for the University’s continued commitment to excellence in health sciences education.

Building on its strong foundation as one of the country’s top-performing Physical Therapy institutions, the IRS expands its academic portfolio to include Occupational Therapy—another vital discipline in rehabilitation and holistic patient care.

This initiative responds to the growing healthcare needs of communities both locally and globally. Occupational Therapy (OT) is a client-centered health profession that focuses on enabling individuals to participate in meaningful daily activities or “occupations” despite physical, developmental, or psychosocial challenges.

Through evidence-based interventions, occupational therapists play a crucial role in promoting independence, improving quality of life, and supporting individuals across the lifespan—from children with developmental delays to adults recovering from injury, and older persons managing age-related conditions.

The introduction of the BSOT program comes at a time when the demand for rehabilitation professionals continues to rise, both in the Philippines and abroad. By offering this program, Silliman University seeks to contribute to the development of highly competent, compassionate, and globally competitive occupational therapists.

The opening of the BSOT program is a natural progression of the vision of the Institute of Rehabilitative Sciences. Its aim is to produce professionals who are not only clinically competent but also grounded in service, leadership, and innovation in rehabilitation.

The program is designed to provide students with a strong academic foundation, hands-on clinical training, and exposure to diverse practice settings, including hospitals, community-based rehabilitation programs, schools, and emerging fields such as ergonomics and assistive technology.

The IRS also envisions opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, research, and international engagement as part of the BSOT experience. As Silliman University continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, the launch of the Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy marks another milestone in its pursuit of transformative education and service to society

For inquiries about the BSOT program, stay tuned for the application process at the Silliman University website: su.edu.ph (Photos: Silliman/Google Images)

Silliman Fine Arts opens summer workshops for children, aspiring artists

DUMAGUETE CITY – Silliman University-Fine Arts Department of the College of Performing and Visual Arts offers a series of summer workshops in April and May 2026, providing opportunities for children, students, and aspiring artists to develop their creative skills across various disciplines.

Among the offerings is the Arts and Crafts for Children workshop, designed for participants aged 6 to 12 years old. The program runs in two batches-- April 6 to10 and May 4 to 8, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The workshop aims to nurture creativity and self-expression through guided art activities suited for young learners.

For those interested in painting, the department will conduct an Intensive Acrylic Painting workshop for participants aged 12 years old and above that are scheduled in two batches—April 13 to 17 and May 11 to 15, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. 

The program covers color theory, painting techniques, and studio practices. Participants will produce their own works, which will be exhibited at the Romeo Art Gallery. The workshop fee is PHP 6,000, exclusive of materials.

The department will also offer a Basic and Advanced Photography Workshop for individuals who wish to explore and refine their visual storytelling skills. The Basic Photography workshop will be held on April 6–10, 2026, followed by the Advanced Photography workshop on April 13–17, 2026. Both sessions will run from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

In addition, a Clay Sculpture Workshop will also be conducted on April 13–17, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The workshop will introduce participants to the fundamentals of hand-building and clay sculpting, outputs from the workshop will also be exhibited at the Romeo Art Gallery. The workshop fee is PHP 7,000, exclusive of materials.

All workshops will be held at the Fine Arts Department of Silliman University in Dumaguete City. Early registration is highly encouraged as slots are limited. For inquiries and registration, interested participants may email finearts@su.edu.ph. (Photos: SU-Office of Media & Public Affairs)

 

Public-private stakeholders in Cebu meet to address fuel, supply chain pressures

CEBU CITY— Some 120 representatives from key national and local government units, local chambers, industry groups, logistics providers, shipping operators, retailers, hotels and resorts, and the broader business community in Cebu convened a high-level “Cebu Convergence Meeting on Transport, Logistics, Fuel, and Supply Chain” on March 30, to strengthen public-private coordination in addressing fuel and supply chain pressures amid the ongoing Middle East crisis.

“The next one to two weeks are critical. What we do now will shape the flow of goods, the stability of supply, and the cost of living for every Cebuano family,” said Regan King, president, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), in his opening statement.

The gathering reflected a united effort to address rising global fuel costs and mounting supply chain pressures with focused on three core objectives—to ensure price and supply stability; maintain the unhampered flow of essential goods; and generate actionable responses across transport, logistics, fuel, power, and retail sectors, according to the CCCI agenda.

Actionable items agreed  

Present at the high-level meeting were key officials of CCCI and other local chambers, Cebu Provincial and City Governments, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Regional and Cebu Provincial Offices, and other industry stakeholders on transport, logistics, fuel, power and more.

The group came up with initiatives like mobile grocery caravans, bringing essential goods directly to upland and underserved communities in Cebu with retailers and suppliers committing to hold the line on prices and maintain adequate stock of basic commodities.

For the national and local government agencies to reinforce price monitoring mechanisms; suspension of truck bans and relaxation of cargo movement restrictions to maintain efficient goods movement; and introduction of green lanes and automatic assessment protocols at ports to prevent bottlenecks.

The maritime and aviation sectors came up with measures such as the reduction or selective suspension of port charges, terminal fees, and vessel-related fees, with berthing and anchorage discounts of up to 40% for domestic vessels. 

Airlines and airport operators are encouraged to reduce aeronautical fees and passenger service charges by up to 50 percent; and cargo freight rates and fares for essential goods proposed for regulation and caps to prevent price gouging.

To support workers and businesses, the group agreed for fuel subsidy programs and targeted financial assistance; flexible work arrangements to reduce operational overhead; and close coordination between the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and industry to mitigate employment disruptions.

For regulatory measures and long-term structural improvements, the group agreed to strengthen fuel cost mitigation strategies; daily monitoring and reporting of oil prices across LGUs; and explore temporary waivers or reductions in fees and penalties to provide operational flexibility. 

The group also seeks to establish a centralized coordination mechanism and single contact point for supply chain concerns; dedicate hotline for real-time resolution of logistics and supply movement issues; and tighter collaboration among shipping, trucking, port authorities, and regulators to prevent minor disruptions from escalating into full-blown crisis.

CCCI to lead and sustain this multi-sector engagement

After the meeting, the CCCI through its president, Regan King reaffirmed its commitment to lead and sustain this multi-sectoral engagement through its Trade and Logistics Alliance, a permanent platform for dialogue, coordination, and problem-solving among government agencies, private sector operators, logistics providers, fuel suppliers, and retailers.

King said that this initiative enables real-time monitoring of supply chain risks, rapid deployment of mitigation measures, and proactive planning to ensure the steady flow of goods and essential services across Cebu’s communities, particularly during times of market volatility and external shocks.

Cebu’s economic resilience depends not only on individual preparedness but also on strong coordination across government and business sectors, said King and global disruptions can quickly impact fuel prices and cargo costs locally, and the region’s best defense is a system that sees clearly, responds quickly, and holds together under pressure, he concluded. (Photos: CCCI)

DSWD-7 begins listing potential 4Ps beneficiaries for Cebu and Bohol

CEBU CITY -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Field Office 7 begins posting the list of potential beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang PilipinoProgram (4Ps) across various cities and municipalities in the provinces Cebu and Bohol.

DSWD-7 regional director, Shalaine Marie Lucero bared that the lists of potential beneficiaries are conspicuously displayed in areas such as the barangay halls and other public spaces for transparency and easy access to information for concerned families. Lucero encourages all listed households and the general public to review the posted information and comply with the registration requirements.

“The registration process is designed to be transparent, organized, and supportive. We are working closely with local governments to ensure that eligible families are properly assessed and assisted throughout the process.  With the lists are public notices outlining the step-by-step registration process, required documents, schedule, and designated venues for registration,” Lucero said.

DSWD-7 field staff, particularly the 4Ps City and Municipal Links, are closely coordinating with Local Government Units (LGUs) and barangay officials to ensure the orderly dissemination of information and smooth implementation of registration activities, Lucero added.

Lucero bared that families categorized as “poor” or “near-poor” in the Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) database are eligible for the 4Ps registration if they meet key socio-demographic requirements. These include households with pregnant women, children up to age 18, or those experiencing intersecting vulnerabilities.

“Preference are given to families with a greater number of children, those with younger dependents who require sustained health and nutrition support, and those belonging to vulnerable sectors such as solo parents, persons with disabilities (PWD), Indigenous Peoples (IPs), senior citizens acting as primary caregivers, and families residing in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA),” Lucero shared.

This initiative is in line with the implementation of Republic Act No. 11315, or the Community-Based Monitoring System (CBMS) Act, wherein the 4Ps has adopted the CBMS as its Standardized Targeting System (STS).

DSWD-7 called on families officially identified through the CBMS as poor or near-poor are advised to prepare the following documents for validation and registration-- Birth certificates of children; Valid ID of the parent or guardian (e.g., PhilSys ID, UMID, Driver’s License, Voter’s ID, or any government-issued ID); Marriage certificate (if applicable); School ID or Certificate of Enrollment (for children currently attending school); Solo Parent ID / Persons with Disabilities (PWD) ID / other proof of vulnerability (if applicable); Affidavit of Guardianship or any legal proof of guardianship (if the caregiver is not the biological parent).

Under 4Ps policies and consistent with identity verification requirements, all household members must be registered in the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) prior to registration. (Photos: DSWD-7)

 

Experience “Breakfast with the Giraffe” only at the Cebu Safari Adventure Park

CARMEN, Cebu – Giraffes joining guests at breakfast? This can only happen at the Cebu Safari Adventure Park, one of the most talked-about experiences of guests staying at the Safari Manor, aptly described as “Breakfast with the Giraffe,” an intimate, lifestyle-driven offering that brings guests face-to-face with one of nature’s most iconic and graceful animals—the giraffes.

Set against the backdrop of Cebu’s verdant highlands, the experience transforms a simple morning meal into a rare wildlife encounter, Robby Alugar, founder of Cebu Online News Press Corps wrote in his Facebook post.

Alugar shared that guests staying at the Safari Manor are ushered into a specially designed viewing area or a verandah, where giraffes gracefully approach, often peering curiously over platforms as diners enjoy their breakfast spread.

The experience reflects the park’s broader push toward immersive, conservation-aware tourism. By creating meaningful yet respectful interactions with wildlife, Cebu Safari encourages a deeper appreciation for these animals and the ecosystems they represent, Alugar told this writer.

“The interaction is carefully managed by trained staff, ensuring both guest safety and animal welfare, while still allowing for close-up moments that feel both personal and extraordinary.  This is especially popular among couples, families and content creators,” workers at the Safari Manor shared.

Reservations for “Breakfast with the Giraffe” are limited and typically bundled with select accommodation packages, making early booking essential for those wanting to experience this unique morning interaction with the wildlife, the workers said.

Discover wildlife sanctuary at Cebu Safari Adventure Park

The Cebu Safari Adventure Park is a premier wildlife sanctuary located in Carmen, Cebu, Philippines, spanning 170 hectares and home to over 1,000 animals from 120 different species, including white tigers, giraffes, zebras, white lions, antelopes, wildebeests, monkeys, chimps, buffalos and more. It opened to the public in February 2018, with a soft opening allowing limited access on a reservation basis, followed by a grand opening event later that month.

The Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is managed by the M. Lhuillier Group of Companies, owned by Michel J. Lhuillier, a prominent Cebuano businessman and founder of the group.  The park's Vice President and Chief Operating Officer is Eduard J. Loop, who has been instrumental in the park's development and operations.

Each animal species has each own habitat space at the Park where they can roam freely and all animal caretakers, veterinarians and tour guides are certified and well-trained. The park is also a member of the Southeast Asian Zoos and Aquariums Association (SEAZA). This membership demonstrates the Park’s commitment to promoting wildlife conservation and education, Loop said

The Park is certified by the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) for its adventure activities, ensuring international safety standards, such as ziplines and ATVs. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) likely regulates the park's environmental impact and wildlife conservation efforts while the Department of Tourism (DOT) may also oversee the park's tourism operations and safety standards.

Attractions at the Cebu Safari and Adventure Park

The Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with last admission at 1:30 PM.  Ticket prices range from P900-1,100 for adults; P450-550 for children ages two to 12 years old, infants under two years old are free. Seniors and PWDs rates are at P720 -P880.

As experiential travel continues to shape the tourism landscape in the country, the Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is now becoming a must-visit destination with its animal zones, exhibits and attractions.

The African Savanna, most popular tram ride through a recreated savannah habitat with zebras, giraffes, tigers and wildebeests; the Tiger Turf--observing majestic Bengal tigers in a natural-looking enclosure with scheduled feeding times and the White Lion Safari-- observing huge white lions up close.

The Aviary Dome, a lush open-air dome with colorful birds flying freely, including toucans, parrots, and hornbills. The Primate Island--Playful monkeys and lemurs in tree-rich habitats, and Reptile House-- with Snakes, lizards, and crocodiles in a temperature-controlled area.

Gardens and landscapes also capture the gamut of flora, fauna at Michel's Garden-- a beautiful botanical garden with more than a thousand vibrant orchids and rare tropical blooms and the Gardens of the World where one can enjoy the beauty and scent of exotic plants from various continents.

Shows and feeding times are interactive and experiential activities such as the Bird Show, a lively performance showcasing birds of prey and parrots, on Wednesdays to Saturdays at 1:45 PM and Sundays at 10:45 AM and 1:45 PM.  Tiger feeding and Giraffe feeding at 3:00 PM daily.

Adventures activities for the more daring guests include the ATV Adventure Trail, a 20 to 30-minute ride through rugged forest trails and muddy slopes; Sky Bike—pedal across a suspended cable high above the forest canopy; Giant Swing--a thrilling swing ride high above the ground and the Zipline—fly over the forest on one of the longest ziplines in the country.

                  Rooms and accommodation facilities at the Cebu Safari

To fully enjoy the immersive quality of the Safari and adventure experiences, the Park introduces its cabin accommodations, a blend of outdoor and resort-style living, set against a backdrop of lush greenery, panoramic mountain views, pools, restaurants and cafes at its Safari Camp area.

These spacious 3 and 2-bedroom cabins cater to a variety of travelers with warm wood interiors, expansive glass windows and private verandas which are ideal for families and small groups while the one-bedroom cabins offer cozy setting for couples or intimate getaways. Each stay includes breakfast at Serengeti Bar and Café, full access to the park, and exclusive use of Safari Camp amenities like the swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

These room accommodations encourage guests to stay longer and explore deeper and maximize their adventures to visit the Park’s attractions, the flower gardens, the forests, the animals, the trails and experience fully the wildlife sanctuary only at the Cebu Safari and Adventure Park! (Photos: MBCNewman)