CHILDREN FIRSTThe newsletter for UNICEF friends

NOVEMBER 2011

Giving Gifts that Last

Php 390Hygiene kits are distributed during

emergencies to meet the basic sanitation needs of a family.

Hygiene Kit

School Pack

Php 1,200Backpacks

complete with school supplies

help children get themselves back on track

with their studies.

Php 17,500

A complete set of books, toys, puppets and learning materials can inspire children to learn

even more with the UNICEF 100 book library set.

100-Book Library

UNICEF CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN is a community of special supporters striving to make a difference in children’s lives. Through their monthly donations to UNICEF, Champions can help children enjoy their rights to education, health care and nutrition, as well as protection from violence and abuse.

Sometime last year, I received mail from UNICEF. I was so thankful because somehow I could share my blessings to these young children who are under your care. Since then, I started sending my financial assistance in my own little way but not regularly until I received an encouraging letter to sign up for monthly donation and be a CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN.

Thank you so much to UNICEF for making my dream come true. I feel I don’t have only one adopted child but many adopted children instead. Thanks also for giving me the opportunity to touch the lives of the people who always have a big and soft spot in my HEART–the street children and orphans.NELY G. ESPINO

My son and myself were on holiday in Manila, and I got stopped by one of the UNICEF volunteers who has a stall inside the mall...and I said this is the opportunity I have been wanting to do–to help. Now, I’m a Champion for Children in the Philippines–and will carry on helping in my own little way. Thumbs up to UNICEF!

AMOR PARAZO

If you’re a current UNICEF monthly donor, write a short essay about why you became a Champion and e-mail us at psfrmanila@unicef.org (subject heading: Why I’m a UNICEF Champion for Children). Please include your name, age and a current photo of yourself (in jpeg format).

If your entry is featured in our newsletter, you will receive an exclusive gift from UNICEF.

WE NEED MORECHAMPIONS

LIKE YOU!

KAMWOKYA, Uganda, 14 October, 2011 – A unique innovation developed by UNICEF called ‘The Digital Drum’ will be featured as part of a new exhibition by the American Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum, exploring various design solutions to address the challenges created by rapid urban growth in informal settlements.

Information portalsCurrently being built and tested in Uganda, ‘The Digital Drum’ is a solar-powered computer kiosk made out of

rugged, locally available materials. An eye-catching combination of industrial simplicity and modern technology, it aims to change the lives of millions of people in rural areas.

Consisting of low-cost oil drums welded together, waterproof keyboards, solar panels, and low-power laptops, the durable design ensures sustainability, and with its preloaded content dealing with health and education, the drums will serve as veritable information portals.

“The innovative technologies like these actually help create a digital bridge between those who have access to the Internet and those who don’t, in a low-cost sturdy fashion,” explained Sharad Sapra, UNICEF Representative in Uganda.

Lack of accessToday, less than 10 per cent of Ugandans use the Internet. Rural communities especially struggle from a lack of access to information, but access also eludes those living in the poorest urban spaces, such as children living in the slum by Kamwokya.

Close to one billion people live in slums around the world, and that number is projected to swell to two billion people by 2030.

UNICEF computer kiosk provides information to communities in Uganda

As a UNICEF Champion for Children, you’ll receive regular updates on our work for children. Plus you’ll be getting your very own Champion for Children Donor ID!

WANT TO SHARE YOUR OWN STORY?

© UNICEF Video

UNICEF has developed an innovative way to increase access to information for rural communities in Uganda. It’s called ‘the rugged solar powered computer.’

GLOBAL NEWS

San Ramon, Dinalupihan, Bataan

Guildford, Surrey, UK

sanitation facilities available, they were all keen to get back to their homes as soon as possible. “I checked the house yesterday, and the water inside is now knee-heigh, so I hope we can return in 2 or 3 days, and begin the process of putting our lives back together,” said Gilbert.

UNICEF has distributed 7,000 water kits and hygiene kits to the flood affected communities of Bulacan and Pampanga, in Central Luzon Philippines. The kits, containing soap, toothpaste, buckets and other important hygiene supplies are important to help families maintain hygiene habits, and prevent disease spreading, especially among children. The water kits contain water purification solution so families can always have safe drinking water.

Vanessa Tobin, UNICEF Country Representative visited the affected areas and observed that the government relief operation was going well, but also issued concern over health issues.

“Large areas of stagnant water are a danger in many ways: risks of dengue, diarrhea and other infectious diseases are a big threat to young children,” said Tobin. “Hygiene kits save lives. Providing soap for body and handwashing in flooded areas is essential for reducing diarrhea and infectious diseases, which can be life threatening for young children,” said Tim Grieve, UNICEF Philippines, Water and Sanitation Chief. “We also have to be careful to ensure solid waste is carefully disposed of and toilet facilities remain sanitary, as these can also cause disease outbreaks, which can spread very fast in crowded evacuation centres,” Grieve added.

Some worrying signs have appeared, with the provincial health officer for Bulacan reporting an increase in diarrhea cases in children in the flooded areas.

Boy, a cheeky one year old, was recovering from a bout of diarrhea, after having been in Calumpit National High School now serving as an evacuation centre for 1 week.

“We were rescued from the roof of our house by the Philippine Air Force,” reported his neighbour, Edgardo.

“Boy started having diarrhea a few days ago, but luckily we were visited by a team of doctors from the government San Lazaro hospital, and they gave him oral rehydration solution, and he’s better now,” he reported, visibly relieved. Boy munched crackers, and laughed with his siblings, seeming to be much better now. “We’ve never seen floods this bad,” added Edgardo, “this is worse than in Ondoy,” he said, remembering the tropical storm that submerged central Luzon and Metro Manila two years ago. As the waters recede, and in the hope that there will be no more storms, families have started to return home and put their lives back together. But in a predominantly rural area, where much of the agricultural and aqua-cultural produce has been destroyed, communities will need assistance to get back on their feet. Many infants and young children in the Philippines have begun their young lives faced with the terrifying effects of flooding and typhoons in their homes. UNICEF is working to help communities adapt and prepare for such calamities, so that they will be better able to adapt and protect themselves from the devastating impact of climate change and severe weather.

For more updates on UNICEF’s emergency response, visit www.unicef.ph

Lifesaving supplies are delivered to families in Macabebe, Pampanga, Central Luzon. ©UNICEF/2011/Santos

1 yr old Boy recovering from diarrhea in Calumpit Evacuation Centre ©UNICEF/2011/Santos

(Continued on page 3)

Give children the gift of a better future. Choose from these selection of packages that help save, improve and protect the lives of children in most need.

Kindly fill up the enclosed donation form and send via fax, mail or post.

All UNICEF supplies are sourced ethically. Our suppliers protect fundamental rights of their

employees especially complete prohibition of child labor.

For donation inquiries, call (+632) 758-1000 / 758-1442 (Mon-Fri, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm) or email psfrmanila@unicef.org.

The pail with cover, water

jug and water purification

tablets will help ensure children

and families have access to one month’s

worth of clean and safe

water.

Water KitPhp 470

Php 41,500

Play Equipment

This colorful set of playground equipment brings shouts of joy to

children in provinces wherever it goes.

THE TAHDERIYYAH PROJECT

I recently joined UNICEF’s Education colleagues with AusAID officials on a visit to Madrasatul Hoda, a madrasah (Arabic word for school)

in Madaum, Tagum City, Davao Del Norte, 55 kilometers south of Davao City.

We were on a mission to see the implementation of the new Tahderiyyah (Islamic preschool) curriculum developed by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), Act for Peace Programme, Talaynged Foundation and Community of Learners Foundation (COLF) with support from UNICEF. The Tahderiyyah curriculum is the first of its kind in the Philippines which blends the teachings of the Holy Qur’an, the Sunnah of Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.) and the principles and science of early childhood development.

Madrasatul Hoda is one of 17 pilot schools chosen to test the curriculum, prior to expanding its use in 800 Bangsamoro communities. I met Khadijah Catuyo and Atica Ladja, the two ustadjas (teachers) in the school. Khadijah told me that prior to the opening of the Tahderiyyah in 2009, the school only offered Arabic and Qur’an classes held on weekends. When they started with the pilot project, she and Atica, decided to divide the teaching load by language of instruction – she teaches Arabic, while Atica handles the classes in English.

I asked Teacher Khadijah how she finds the new Tahderiyyah curriculum, and she excitedly told me that the curriculum is much better than that being used in the public day-care centers in neighboring communities. Khadijah says parents of those who attend the Tahderiyyah report their children seem more eager to learn and look forward to attending school, even asking to go to school on weekends. They’re also saying Tahderiyyah children seem to have no trouble learning the pre-

literacy and pre-numeracy skills such as the alphabet, numbers and shape recognition, and can write their names at the age of 4. The children are also observed to be more sociable and are able to interact well with adults. Teacher Atica happily mentioned that the son of their school principal who attended K1 and K2 in their Tahderiyyah is now in Grade 1, and ranks second in his class. Other graduates also do well in elementary school. I also had a chance to meet a few parents during the visit. One of them was Malila Pongo, whose youngest daughter Jamilah is one of 14 students attending the Tahderiyyah. Malila relates that Jamilah used to attend the daycare center in the next community, but when they heard good stories from neighbors regarding the Tahderiyyah, she decided to move Jamilah. “She now knows shapes, sizes, and the difference between even and odd numbers. The curriculum here is play-based, so the children enjoy going to class and learning. Jamilah looks forward to going to school everyday, she even wakes up early on weekends because she thinks there’s school even on Saturdays and Sundays,” Malila happily relates.

AusAID Counsellor for Development Cooperation Elaine Ward was with us during the visit. She said of the visit, “It’s

heartwarming to see children with happy faces, all eager to learn. It is something that will remain with me for a very long time.” The support of the parents and community to the madrasah is very positive and encouraging. Australia’s investment in education in the Philippines is making a difference.”

The Tahderiyyah project builds on the gains of Days of Peace (DoP) campaign for basic services initiated by UNICEF with the support of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, the Bangsamoro Development Agency, and AusAID. The Tahderiyyah project is the centerpiece of the DoP phase 2 which aims to improve school-readiness skills of young children so they can gain adequate school preparation to be able to hurdle grade 1 tasks, do well in and complete school. By doing so, the project will contribute to an increase in participation rates in both early childhood and primary education.

NOTES FROM THE FIELD:

by Michelle Parazo-Borromeo

Mother Malila Pongo and her youngest daughter Jamilah

AusAID’s Elaine Ward

(2nd from left) and UNICEF’s Lulay De Vera (3rd from left) with madrasah

students in Madaum, Davao del

Norte.

©UNICEF/Philippines/2011

©UNICEF/Philippines/2011

Vanessa TobinUNICEF Philippines Country Representative

NOTE FROM THE COUNTRY REP

CHILDREN FIRST is published four times yearly for UNICEF supporters. EDITORIAL TEAM VANESSA TOBIN Country Representative ANGELA TRAVIS Chief of Communication MICHELLE PARAZO BORROMEO Fundraising Specialist

CONTRIBUTORS Pam Pagunsan, Gina Sales, Kristine Carbon, Janina San Buenaventura, www.unicef.org global articles.

Visit us at www.unicef.ph

facebook.com/unicefphilippines twitter.com/unicefphilsyoutube.com/unicefphilippines flickr.com/photos/unicefphils

JOIN US ON:

Help us save trees! Subscribe to UNICEF E-News on www.unicef.ph to get an electronic copy of this newsletter.

UNICEF is the United Nations Children’s Fund 31/F, Yuchengco Tower, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Philippines,1200 Tel : (+63 2) 758-1000; 758-1442 | Fax: (+63 2) 729-4529

ABOUT UNICEFUNICEF is on the ground in over 190 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS.

In the Philippines for over sixty years, UNICEF works through partners to reach disadvantaged children and communities to ensure children are healthy, educated and protected from harm. UNICEF is quick to respond in emergencies to ensure affected communities are reached and provided with services from local governments and other service providers.

In this issue, UNICEF Communication chief Angela Travis goes with the UNICEF emergency team to distribute emergency supplies to flood-affected communities in Bulacan and Pampanga.

Journey with Fundraising Chief Michelle Borromeo on her latest visit to Davao and learn about how the Taderriyah curriculum in Mindanao makes a huge difference in the way Muslim children learn through the support of development partner AusAID.

In Global News, see how UNICEF has developed a “digital drum” – an innovative, low-cost solution that bridges the digital gap in communities in Uganda.

We hope our stories inspire you to keep on supporting our work for children in the Philippines and worldwide. Happy reading!

UNICEF Champion for Children Anne Curtis visits the UNICEF team in Manila

Families return home after flooding in Central Luzon, Philippines By Angela Travis

©UNICEF/Philippines/2011/Santos

Baby Luenard was just 10 days old when the floodwaters in Calumpit, Central Philippines rose to neck level, and the family clambered onto their roof to save themselves. Thankfully they were

rescued by the Philippine Navy, who were evacuating families in boats. The family managed to grab just a few clothes for the baby and themselves, but had to leave everything else behind. They are now living in the Bulacan sports complex, which temporarily houses around 100 families.

“We are just glad we are all safe, but we have lost everything,” said father Gilbert, 27. “I am a construction worker, and I am worried all my tools are now lost,” he said as he looked down in concern.

Baby Luenard’s mother, Laarni, 28, took back the baby, and he immediately settled down, comforted by the familiar smell of mother and mother’s milk. “Laarni is giving him only breastmilk,” said Gilbert, “as we know it’s his best protection against all infections. There was some formula milk handed out, but we won’t be giving it to our baby, as we know breastmilk is the best thing,” he added. The flooding was caused by two typhoons which struck the area in quick succession. With additional waters released from nearby dams, the waters rose fast and to-date more than eighty people have lost their lives, with many more missing. Some families have chosen to stay in their homes, living on upper floors or even roofs, whilst others are in evacuation centres.

Whilst most of the families in the evacuation centre had their basic needs met, with food, drinking water and decent

16-day-old Luenard cried out for his mother, whilst his father did his best to comfort him, as she rested.

16 day old baby Luenard with parents in Bulacan Sports Complex EC.

(Continued on page 4)

THE TAHDERIYYAH PROJECT

I recently joined UNICEF’s Education colleagues with AusAID officials on a visit to Madrasatul Hoda, a madrasah (Arabic word for school)

in Madaum, Tagum City, Davao Del Norte, 55 kilometers south of Davao City.

We were on a mission to see the implementation of the new Tahderiyyah (Islamic preschool) curriculum developed by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), Act for Peace Programme, Talaynged Foundation and Community of Learners Foundation (COLF) with support from UNICEF. The Tahderiyyah curriculum is the first of its kind in the Philippines which blends the teachings of the Holy Qur’an, the Sunnah of Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.) and the principles and science of early childhood development.

Madrasatul Hoda is one of 17 pilot schools chosen to test the curriculum, prior to expanding its use in 800 Bangsamoro communities. I met Khadijah Catuyo and Atica Ladja, the two ustadjas (teachers) in the school. Khadijah told me that prior to the opening of the Tahderiyyah in 2009, the school only offered Arabic and Qur’an classes held on weekends. When they started with the pilot project, she and Atica, decided to divide the teaching load by language of instruction – she teaches Arabic, while Atica handles the classes in English.

I asked Teacher Khadijah how she finds the new Tahderiyyah curriculum, and she excitedly told me that the curriculum is much better than that being used in the public day-care centers in neighboring communities. Khadijah says parents of those who attend the Tahderiyyah report their children seem more eager to learn and look forward to attending school, even asking to go to school on weekends. They’re also saying Tahderiyyah children seem to have no trouble learning the pre-

literacy and pre-numeracy skills such as the alphabet, numbers and shape recognition, and can write their names at the age of 4. The children are also observed to be more sociable and are able to interact well with adults. Teacher Atica happily mentioned that the son of their school principal who attended K1 and K2 in their Tahderiyyah is now in Grade 1, and ranks second in his class. Other graduates also do well in elementary school. I also had a chance to meet a few parents during the visit. One of them was Malila Pongo, whose youngest daughter Jamilah is one of 14 students attending the Tahderiyyah. Malila relates that Jamilah used to attend the daycare center in the next community, but when they heard good stories from neighbors regarding the Tahderiyyah, she decided to move Jamilah. “She now knows shapes, sizes, and the difference between even and odd numbers. The curriculum here is play-based, so the children enjoy going to class and learning. Jamilah looks forward to going to school everyday, she even wakes up early on weekends because she thinks there’s school even on Saturdays and Sundays,” Malila happily relates.

AusAID Counsellor for Development Cooperation Elaine Ward was with us during the visit. She said of the visit, “It’s

heartwarming to see children with happy faces, all eager to learn. It is something that will remain with me for a very long time.” The support of the parents and community to the madrasah is very positive and encouraging. Australia’s investment in education in the Philippines is making a difference.”

The Tahderiyyah project builds on the gains of Days of Peace (DoP) campaign for basic services initiated by UNICEF with the support of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, the Bangsamoro Development Agency, and AusAID. The Tahderiyyah project is the centerpiece of the DoP phase 2 which aims to improve school-readiness skills of young children so they can gain adequate school preparation to be able to hurdle grade 1 tasks, do well in and complete school. By doing so, the project will contribute to an increase in participation rates in both early childhood and primary education.

NOTES FROM THE FIELD:

by Michelle Parazo-Borromeo

Mother Malila Pongo and her youngest daughter Jamilah

AusAID’s Elaine Ward

(2nd from left) and UNICEF’s Lulay De Vera (3rd from left) with madrasah

students in Madaum, Davao del

Norte.

©UNICEF/Philippines/2011

©UNICEF/Philippines/2011

Vanessa TobinUNICEF Philippines Country Representative

NOTE FROM THE COUNTRY REP

CHILDREN FIRST is published four times yearly for UNICEF supporters. EDITORIAL TEAM VANESSA TOBIN Country Representative ANGELA TRAVIS Chief of Communication MICHELLE PARAZO BORROMEO Fundraising Specialist

CONTRIBUTORS Pam Pagunsan, Gina Sales, Kristine Carbon, Janina San Buenaventura, www.unicef.org global articles.

Visit us at www.unicef.ph

facebook.com/unicefphilippines twitter.com/unicefphilsyoutube.com/unicefphilippines flickr.com/photos/unicefphils

JOIN US ON:

Help us save trees! Subscribe to UNICEF E-News on www.unicef.ph to get an electronic copy of this newsletter.

UNICEF is the United Nations Children’s Fund 31/F, Yuchengco Tower, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Philippines,1200 Tel : (+63 2) 758-1000; 758-1442 | Fax: (+63 2) 729-4529

ABOUT UNICEFUNICEF is on the ground in over 190 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS.

In the Philippines for over sixty years, UNICEF works through partners to reach disadvantaged children and communities to ensure children are healthy, educated and protected from harm. UNICEF is quick to respond in emergencies to ensure affected communities are reached and provided with services from local governments and other service providers.

In this issue, UNICEF Communication chief Angela Travis goes with the UNICEF emergency team to distribute emergency supplies to flood-affected communities in Bulacan and Pampanga.

Journey with Fundraising Chief Michelle Borromeo on her latest visit to Davao and learn about how the Taderriyah curriculum in Mindanao makes a huge difference in the way Muslim children learn through the support of development partner AusAID.

In Global News, see how UNICEF has developed a “digital drum” – an innovative, low-cost solution that bridges the digital gap in communities in Uganda.

We hope our stories inspire you to keep on supporting our work for children in the Philippines and worldwide. Happy reading!

UNICEF Champion for Children Anne Curtis visits the UNICEF team in Manila

Families return home after flooding in Central Luzon, Philippines By Angela Travis

©UNICEF/Philippines/2011/Santos

Baby Luenard was just 10 days old when the floodwaters in Calumpit, Central Philippines rose to neck level, and the family clambered onto their roof to save themselves. Thankfully they were

rescued by the Philippine Navy, who were evacuating families in boats. The family managed to grab just a few clothes for the baby and themselves, but had to leave everything else behind. They are now living in the Bulacan sports complex, which temporarily houses around 100 families.

“We are just glad we are all safe, but we have lost everything,” said father Gilbert, 27. “I am a construction worker, and I am worried all my tools are now lost,” he said as he looked down in concern.

Baby Luenard’s mother, Laarni, 28, took back the baby, and he immediately settled down, comforted by the familiar smell of mother and mother’s milk. “Laarni is giving him only breastmilk,” said Gilbert, “as we know it’s his best protection against all infections. There was some formula milk handed out, but we won’t be giving it to our baby, as we know breastmilk is the best thing,” he added. The flooding was caused by two typhoons which struck the area in quick succession. With additional waters released from nearby dams, the waters rose fast and to-date more than eighty people have lost their lives, with many more missing. Some families have chosen to stay in their homes, living on upper floors or even roofs, whilst others are in evacuation centres.

Whilst most of the families in the evacuation centre had their basic needs met, with food, drinking water and decent

16-day-old Luenard cried out for his mother, whilst his father did his best to comfort him, as she rested.

16 day old baby Luenard with parents in Bulacan Sports Complex EC.

(Continued on page 4)

THE TAHDERIYYAH PROJECT

I recently joined UNICEF’s Education colleagues with AusAID officials on a visit to Madrasatul Hoda, a madrasah (Arabic word for school)

in Madaum, Tagum City, Davao Del Norte, 55 kilometers south of Davao City.

We were on a mission to see the implementation of the new Tahderiyyah (Islamic preschool) curriculum developed by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), Act for Peace Programme, Talaynged Foundation and Community of Learners Foundation (COLF) with support from UNICEF. The Tahderiyyah curriculum is the first of its kind in the Philippines which blends the teachings of the Holy Qur’an, the Sunnah of Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.) and the principles and science of early childhood development.

Madrasatul Hoda is one of 17 pilot schools chosen to test the curriculum, prior to expanding its use in 800 Bangsamoro communities. I met Khadijah Catuyo and Atica Ladja, the two ustadjas (teachers) in the school. Khadijah told me that prior to the opening of the Tahderiyyah in 2009, the school only offered Arabic and Qur’an classes held on weekends. When they started with the pilot project, she and Atica, decided to divide the teaching load by language of instruction – she teaches Arabic, while Atica handles the classes in English.

I asked Teacher Khadijah how she finds the new Tahderiyyah curriculum, and she excitedly told me that the curriculum is much better than that being used in the public day-care centers in neighboring communities. Khadijah says parents of those who attend the Tahderiyyah report their children seem more eager to learn and look forward to attending school, even asking to go to school on weekends. They’re also saying Tahderiyyah children seem to have no trouble learning the pre-

literacy and pre-numeracy skills such as the alphabet, numbers and shape recognition, and can write their names at the age of 4. The children are also observed to be more sociable and are able to interact well with adults. Teacher Atica happily mentioned that the son of their school principal who attended K1 and K2 in their Tahderiyyah is now in Grade 1, and ranks second in his class. Other graduates also do well in elementary school. I also had a chance to meet a few parents during the visit. One of them was Malila Pongo, whose youngest daughter Jamilah is one of 14 students attending the Tahderiyyah. Malila relates that Jamilah used to attend the daycare center in the next community, but when they heard good stories from neighbors regarding the Tahderiyyah, she decided to move Jamilah. “She now knows shapes, sizes, and the difference between even and odd numbers. The curriculum here is play-based, so the children enjoy going to class and learning. Jamilah looks forward to going to school everyday, she even wakes up early on weekends because she thinks there’s school even on Saturdays and Sundays,” Malila happily relates.

AusAID Counsellor for Development Cooperation Elaine Ward was with us during the visit. She said of the visit, “It’s

heartwarming to see children with happy faces, all eager to learn. It is something that will remain with me for a very long time.” The support of the parents and community to the madrasah is very positive and encouraging. Australia’s investment in education in the Philippines is making a difference.”

The Tahderiyyah project builds on the gains of Days of Peace (DoP) campaign for basic services initiated by UNICEF with the support of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, the Bangsamoro Development Agency, and AusAID. The Tahderiyyah project is the centerpiece of the DoP phase 2 which aims to improve school-readiness skills of young children so they can gain adequate school preparation to be able to hurdle grade 1 tasks, do well in and complete school. By doing so, the project will contribute to an increase in participation rates in both early childhood and primary education.

NOTES FROM THE FIELD:

by Michelle Parazo-Borromeo

Mother Malila Pongo and her youngest daughter Jamilah

AusAID’s Elaine Ward

(2nd from left) and UNICEF’s Lulay De Vera (3rd from left) with madrasah

students in Madaum, Davao del

Norte.

©UNICEF/Philippines/2011

©UNICEF/Philippines/2011

Vanessa TobinUNICEF Philippines Country Representative

NOTE FROM THE COUNTRY REP

CHILDREN FIRST is published four times yearly for UNICEF supporters. EDITORIAL TEAM VANESSA TOBIN Country Representative ANGELA TRAVIS Chief of Communication MICHELLE PARAZO BORROMEO Fundraising Specialist

CONTRIBUTORS Pam Pagunsan, Gina Sales, Kristine Carbon, Janina San Buenaventura, www.unicef.org global articles.

Visit us at www.unicef.ph

facebook.com/unicefphilippines twitter.com/unicefphilsyoutube.com/unicefphilippines flickr.com/photos/unicefphils

JOIN US ON:

Help us save trees! Subscribe to UNICEF E-News on www.unicef.ph to get an electronic copy of this newsletter.

UNICEF is the United Nations Children’s Fund 31/F, Yuchengco Tower, RCBC Plaza 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Philippines,1200 Tel : (+63 2) 758-1000; 758-1442 | Fax: (+63 2) 729-4529

ABOUT UNICEFUNICEF is on the ground in over 190 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS.

In the Philippines for over sixty years, UNICEF works through partners to reach disadvantaged children and communities to ensure children are healthy, educated and protected from harm. UNICEF is quick to respond in emergencies to ensure affected communities are reached and provided with services from local governments and other service providers.

In this issue, UNICEF Communication chief Angela Travis goes with the UNICEF emergency team to distribute emergency supplies to flood-affected communities in Bulacan and Pampanga.

Journey with Fundraising Chief Michelle Borromeo on her latest visit to Davao and learn about how the Taderriyah curriculum in Mindanao makes a huge difference in the way Muslim children learn through the support of development partner AusAID.

In Global News, see how UNICEF has developed a “digital drum” – an innovative, low-cost solution that bridges the digital gap in communities in Uganda.

We hope our stories inspire you to keep on supporting our work for children in the Philippines and worldwide. Happy reading!

UNICEF Champion for Children Anne Curtis visits the UNICEF team in Manila

Families return home after flooding in Central Luzon, Philippines By Angela Travis

©UNICEF/Philippines/2011/Santos

Baby Luenard was just 10 days old when the floodwaters in Calumpit, Central Philippines rose to neck level, and the family clambered onto their roof to save themselves. Thankfully they were

rescued by the Philippine Navy, who were evacuating families in boats. The family managed to grab just a few clothes for the baby and themselves, but had to leave everything else behind. They are now living in the Bulacan sports complex, which temporarily houses around 100 families.

“We are just glad we are all safe, but we have lost everything,” said father Gilbert, 27. “I am a construction worker, and I am worried all my tools are now lost,” he said as he looked down in concern.

Baby Luenard’s mother, Laarni, 28, took back the baby, and he immediately settled down, comforted by the familiar smell of mother and mother’s milk. “Laarni is giving him only breastmilk,” said Gilbert, “as we know it’s his best protection against all infections. There was some formula milk handed out, but we won’t be giving it to our baby, as we know breastmilk is the best thing,” he added. The flooding was caused by two typhoons which struck the area in quick succession. With additional waters released from nearby dams, the waters rose fast and to-date more than eighty people have lost their lives, with many more missing. Some families have chosen to stay in their homes, living on upper floors or even roofs, whilst others are in evacuation centres.

Whilst most of the families in the evacuation centre had their basic needs met, with food, drinking water and decent

16-day-old Luenard cried out for his mother, whilst his father did his best to comfort him, as she rested.

16 day old baby Luenard with parents in Bulacan Sports Complex EC.

(Continued on page 4)

CHILDREN FIRSTThe newsletter for UNICEF friends

NOVEMBER 2011

Giving Gifts that Last

Php 390Hygiene kits are distributed during

emergencies to meet the basic sanitation needs of a family.

Hygiene Kit

School Pack

Php 1,200Backpacks

complete with school supplies

help children get themselves back on track

with their studies.

Php 17,500

A complete set of books, toys, puppets and learning materials can inspire children to learn

even more with the UNICEF 100 book library set.

100-Book Library

UNICEF CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN is a community of special supporters striving to make a difference in children’s lives. Through their monthly donations to UNICEF, Champions can help children enjoy their rights to education, health care and nutrition, as well as protection from violence and abuse.

Sometime last year, I received mail from UNICEF. I was so thankful because somehow I could share my blessings to these young children who are under your care. Since then, I started sending my financial assistance in my own little way but not regularly until I received an encouraging letter to sign up for monthly donation and be a CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN.

Thank you so much to UNICEF for making my dream come true. I feel I don’t have only one adopted child but many adopted children instead. Thanks also for giving me the opportunity to touch the lives of the people who always have a big and soft spot in my HEART–the street children and orphans.NELY G. ESPINO

My son and myself were on holiday in Manila, and I got stopped by one of the UNICEF volunteers who has a stall inside the mall...and I said this is the opportunity I have been wanting to do–to help. Now, I’m a Champion for Children in the Philippines–and will carry on helping in my own little way. Thumbs up to UNICEF!

AMOR PARAZO

If you’re a current UNICEF monthly donor, write a short essay about why you became a Champion and e-mail us at psfrmanila@unicef.org (subject heading: Why I’m a UNICEF Champion for Children). Please include your name, age and a current photo of yourself (in jpeg format).

If your entry is featured in our newsletter, you will receive an exclusive gift from UNICEF.

WE NEED MORECHAMPIONS

LIKE YOU!

KAMWOKYA, Uganda, 14 October, 2011 – A unique innovation developed by UNICEF called ‘The Digital Drum’ will be featured as part of a new exhibition by the American Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum, exploring various design solutions to address the challenges created by rapid urban growth in informal settlements.

Information portalsCurrently being built and tested in Uganda, ‘The Digital Drum’ is a solar-powered computer kiosk made out of

rugged, locally available materials. An eye-catching combination of industrial simplicity and modern technology, it aims to change the lives of millions of people in rural areas.

Consisting of low-cost oil drums welded together, waterproof keyboards, solar panels, and low-power laptops, the durable design ensures sustainability, and with its preloaded content dealing with health and education, the drums will serve as veritable information portals.

“The innovative technologies like these actually help create a digital bridge between those who have access to the Internet and those who don’t, in a low-cost sturdy fashion,” explained Sharad Sapra, UNICEF Representative in Uganda.

Lack of accessToday, less than 10 per cent of Ugandans use the Internet. Rural communities especially struggle from a lack of access to information, but access also eludes those living in the poorest urban spaces, such as children living in the slum by Kamwokya.

Close to one billion people live in slums around the world, and that number is projected to swell to two billion people by 2030.

UNICEF computer kiosk provides information to communities in Uganda

As a UNICEF Champion for Children, you’ll receive regular updates on our work for children. Plus you’ll be getting your very own Champion for Children Donor ID!

WANT TO SHARE YOUR OWN STORY?

© UNICEF Video

UNICEF has developed an innovative way to increase access to information for rural communities in Uganda. It’s called ‘the rugged solar powered computer.’

GLOBAL NEWS

San Ramon, Dinalupihan, Bataan

Guildford, Surrey, UK

sanitation facilities available, they were all keen to get back to their homes as soon as possible. “I checked the house yesterday, and the water inside is now knee-heigh, so I hope we can return in 2 or 3 days, and begin the process of putting our lives back together,” said Gilbert.

UNICEF has distributed 7,000 water kits and hygiene kits to the flood affected communities of Bulacan and Pampanga, in Central Luzon Philippines. The kits, containing soap, toothpaste, buckets and other important hygiene supplies are important to help families maintain hygiene habits, and prevent disease spreading, especially among children. The water kits contain water purification solution so families can always have safe drinking water.

Vanessa Tobin, UNICEF Country Representative visited the affected areas and observed that the government relief operation was going well, but also issued concern over health issues.

“Large areas of stagnant water are a danger in many ways: risks of dengue, diarrhea and other infectious diseases are a big threat to young children,” said Tobin. “Hygiene kits save lives. Providing soap for body and handwashing in flooded areas is essential for reducing diarrhea and infectious diseases, which can be life threatening for young children,” said Tim Grieve, UNICEF Philippines, Water and Sanitation Chief. “We also have to be careful to ensure solid waste is carefully disposed of and toilet facilities remain sanitary, as these can also cause disease outbreaks, which can spread very fast in crowded evacuation centres,” Grieve added.

Some worrying signs have appeared, with the provincial health officer for Bulacan reporting an increase in diarrhea cases in children in the flooded areas.

Boy, a cheeky one year old, was recovering from a bout of diarrhea, after having been in Calumpit National High School now serving as an evacuation centre for 1 week.

“We were rescued from the roof of our house by the Philippine Air Force,” reported his neighbour, Edgardo.

“Boy started having diarrhea a few days ago, but luckily we were visited by a team of doctors from the government San Lazaro hospital, and they gave him oral rehydration solution, and he’s better now,” he reported, visibly relieved. Boy munched crackers, and laughed with his siblings, seeming to be much better now. “We’ve never seen floods this bad,” added Edgardo, “this is worse than in Ondoy,” he said, remembering the tropical storm that submerged central Luzon and Metro Manila two years ago. As the waters recede, and in the hope that there will be no more storms, families have started to return home and put their lives back together. But in a predominantly rural area, where much of the agricultural and aqua-cultural produce has been destroyed, communities will need assistance to get back on their feet. Many infants and young children in the Philippines have begun their young lives faced with the terrifying effects of flooding and typhoons in their homes. UNICEF is working to help communities adapt and prepare for such calamities, so that they will be better able to adapt and protect themselves from the devastating impact of climate change and severe weather.

For more updates on UNICEF’s emergency response, visit www.unicef.ph

Lifesaving supplies are delivered to families in Macabebe, Pampanga, Central Luzon. ©UNICEF/2011/Santos

1 yr old Boy recovering from diarrhea in Calumpit Evacuation Centre ©UNICEF/2011/Santos

(Continued on page 3)

Give children the gift of a better future. Choose from these selection of packages that help save, improve and protect the lives of children in most need.

Kindly fill up the enclosed donation form and send via fax, mail or post.

All UNICEF supplies are sourced ethically. Our suppliers protect fundamental rights of their

employees especially complete prohibition of child labor.

For donation inquiries, call (+632) 758-1000 / 758-1442 (Mon-Fri, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm) or email psfrmanila@unicef.org.

The pail with cover, water

jug and water purification

tablets will help ensure children

and families have access to one month’s

worth of clean and safe

water.

Water KitPhp 470

Php 41,500

Play Equipment

This colorful set of playground equipment brings shouts of joy to

children in provinces wherever it goes.

CHILDREN FIRSTThe newsletter for UNICEF friends

NOVEMBER 2011

Giving Gifts that Last

Php 390Hygiene kits are distributed during

emergencies to meet the basic sanitation needs of a family.

Hygiene Kit

School Pack

Php 1,200Backpacks

complete with school supplies

help children get themselves back on track

with their studies.

Php 17,500

A complete set of books, toys, puppets and learning materials can inspire children to learn

even more with the UNICEF 100 book library set.

100-Book Library

UNICEF CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN is a community of special supporters striving to make a difference in children’s lives. Through their monthly donations to UNICEF, Champions can help children enjoy their rights to education, health care and nutrition, as well as protection from violence and abuse.

Sometime last year, I received mail from UNICEF. I was so thankful because somehow I could share my blessings to these young children who are under your care. Since then, I started sending my financial assistance in my own little way but not regularly until I received an encouraging letter to sign up for monthly donation and be a CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN.

Thank you so much to UNICEF for making my dream come true. I feel I don’t have only one adopted child but many adopted children instead. Thanks also for giving me the opportunity to touch the lives of the people who always have a big and soft spot in my HEART–the street children and orphans.NELY G. ESPINO

My son and myself were on holiday in Manila, and I got stopped by one of the UNICEF volunteers who has a stall inside the mall...and I said this is the opportunity I have been wanting to do–to help. Now, I’m a Champion for Children in the Philippines–and will carry on helping in my own little way. Thumbs up to UNICEF!

AMOR PARAZO

If you’re a current UNICEF monthly donor, write a short essay about why you became a Champion and e-mail us at psfrmanila@unicef.org (subject heading: Why I’m a UNICEF Champion for Children). Please include your name, age and a current photo of yourself (in jpeg format).

If your entry is featured in our newsletter, you will receive an exclusive gift from UNICEF.

WE NEED MORECHAMPIONS

LIKE YOU!

KAMWOKYA, Uganda, 14 October, 2011 – A unique innovation developed by UNICEF called ‘The Digital Drum’ will be featured as part of a new exhibition by the American Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum, exploring various design solutions to address the challenges created by rapid urban growth in informal settlements.

Information portalsCurrently being built and tested in Uganda, ‘The Digital Drum’ is a solar-powered computer kiosk made out of

rugged, locally available materials. An eye-catching combination of industrial simplicity and modern technology, it aims to change the lives of millions of people in rural areas.

Consisting of low-cost oil drums welded together, waterproof keyboards, solar panels, and low-power laptops, the durable design ensures sustainability, and with its preloaded content dealing with health and education, the drums will serve as veritable information portals.

“The innovative technologies like these actually help create a digital bridge between those who have access to the Internet and those who don’t, in a low-cost sturdy fashion,” explained Sharad Sapra, UNICEF Representative in Uganda.

Lack of accessToday, less than 10 per cent of Ugandans use the Internet. Rural communities especially struggle from a lack of access to information, but access also eludes those living in the poorest urban spaces, such as children living in the slum by Kamwokya.

Close to one billion people live in slums around the world, and that number is projected to swell to two billion people by 2030.

UNICEF computer kiosk provides information to communities in Uganda

As a UNICEF Champion for Children, you’ll receive regular updates on our work for children. Plus you’ll be getting your very own Champion for Children Donor ID!

WANT TO SHARE YOUR OWN STORY?

© UNICEF Video

UNICEF has developed an innovative way to increase access to information for rural communities in Uganda. It’s called ‘the rugged solar powered computer.’

GLOBAL NEWS

San Ramon, Dinalupihan, Bataan

Guildford, Surrey, UK

sanitation facilities available, they were all keen to get back to their homes as soon as possible. “I checked the house yesterday, and the water inside is now knee-heigh, so I hope we can return in 2 or 3 days, and begin the process of putting our lives back together,” said Gilbert.

UNICEF has distributed 7,000 water kits and hygiene kits to the flood affected communities of Bulacan and Pampanga, in Central Luzon Philippines. The kits, containing soap, toothpaste, buckets and other important hygiene supplies are important to help families maintain hygiene habits, and prevent disease spreading, especially among children. The water kits contain water purification solution so families can always have safe drinking water.

Vanessa Tobin, UNICEF Country Representative visited the affected areas and observed that the government relief operation was going well, but also issued concern over health issues.

“Large areas of stagnant water are a danger in many ways: risks of dengue, diarrhea and other infectious diseases are a big threat to young children,” said Tobin. “Hygiene kits save lives. Providing soap for body and handwashing in flooded areas is essential for reducing diarrhea and infectious diseases, which can be life threatening for young children,” said Tim Grieve, UNICEF Philippines, Water and Sanitation Chief. “We also have to be careful to ensure solid waste is carefully disposed of and toilet facilities remain sanitary, as these can also cause disease outbreaks, which can spread very fast in crowded evacuation centres,” Grieve added.

Some worrying signs have appeared, with the provincial health officer for Bulacan reporting an increase in diarrhea cases in children in the flooded areas.

Boy, a cheeky one year old, was recovering from a bout of diarrhea, after having been in Calumpit National High School now serving as an evacuation centre for 1 week.

“We were rescued from the roof of our house by the Philippine Air Force,” reported his neighbour, Edgardo.

“Boy started having diarrhea a few days ago, but luckily we were visited by a team of doctors from the government San Lazaro hospital, and they gave him oral rehydration solution, and he’s better now,” he reported, visibly relieved. Boy munched crackers, and laughed with his siblings, seeming to be much better now. “We’ve never seen floods this bad,” added Edgardo, “this is worse than in Ondoy,” he said, remembering the tropical storm that submerged central Luzon and Metro Manila two years ago. As the waters recede, and in the hope that there will be no more storms, families have started to return home and put their lives back together. But in a predominantly rural area, where much of the agricultural and aqua-cultural produce has been destroyed, communities will need assistance to get back on their feet. Many infants and young children in the Philippines have begun their young lives faced with the terrifying effects of flooding and typhoons in their homes. UNICEF is working to help communities adapt and prepare for such calamities, so that they will be better able to adapt and protect themselves from the devastating impact of climate change and severe weather.

For more updates on UNICEF’s emergency response, visit www.unicef.ph

Lifesaving supplies are delivered to families in Macabebe, Pampanga, Central Luzon. ©UNICEF/2011/Santos

1 yr old Boy recovering from diarrhea in Calumpit Evacuation Centre ©UNICEF/2011/Santos

(Continued on page 3)

Give children the gift of a better future. Choose from these selection of packages that help save, improve and protect the lives of children in most need.

Kindly fill up the enclosed donation form and send via fax, mail or post.

All UNICEF supplies are sourced ethically. Our suppliers protect fundamental rights of their

employees especially complete prohibition of child labor.

For donation inquiries, call (+632) 758-1000 / 758-1442 (Mon-Fri, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm) or email psfrmanila@unicef.org.

The pail with cover, water

jug and water purification

tablets will help ensure children

and families have access to one month’s

worth of clean and safe

water.

Water KitPhp 470

Php 41,500

Play Equipment

This colorful set of playground equipment brings shouts of joy to

children in provinces wherever it goes.