DATE: JULY 25-26, 2026 | PARENTS | PHOTOGRAPH BY TAMBAYAN CENTER
A Journey of Rights, Healing, and Community Care
This initiative is led by Amaya Lay Mindanao, Inc., in partnership with Tambayan Center for Children’s Rights, Inc.; the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany—Manila; and local health and social welfare agencies. Together, we stand on one unshakable belief: a safe, just, and compassionate community is built on dignity for all.
In the heart of Davao City, where stories of struggle are intertwined with resilience, a group of parents gathered—not as spectators, but as advocates for their children, their families, and every person whose dignity is too often overlooked. Over two meaningful days, they participated in the Child-Friendly & Community-Based Drug Prevention Project, a space where human rights meet compassion and where healing begins with being seen, heard, and valued.
Every Person, Every Right
The conversation began with a simple yet powerful question: “What does human rights mean to you? ”
At first, silence filled the room, but gradually participants found their voices:
• “It is the right to send our children to school.”
• “It means having food on the table and a roof over our heads.”
• “It means no one should hurt our children to discipline them.”
Together, they discovered that human rights are inherent, universal, and belong to every person simply because we are human.
Participants explored the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and learned about Survival, Development, Protection, and Participation Rights. They also distinguished rights from privileges and recognized that protecting children is a shared responsibility of families, communities, and government.
Feelings, Health, and the Courage to Heal
The facilitator invited participants to reflect on their emotions before discussing substance use, emphasizing that every feeling is valid and deserves recognition.
Participants shared experiences of sadness, frustration, uncertainty, and hope. Together they created the Well-Being Tree:
• Roots – faith, family, values, and support
• Trunk – purpose, love, and resilience
• Branches – dreams of health, peace, dignity, and opportunity
The session highlighted the close connection between mental health and substance use, emphasizing that substance use should first be understood as a public health and human rights concern.
The drama presentation “The Path Back” reminded everyone that healing begins when communities choose compassion over condemnation.
Voices That Matter
“I used to think only parents were responsible for children. Now I understand government and communities have responsibilities too.” — Mely
“We are still human. Rehabilitation is health care.” — Jav
“Human rights belong to everyone without exception.” —Eliza
Participants left with practical knowledge about healthy coping strategies, available support services, and the confidence that they are not alone.
You Are Not Alone
Support is available through:
• Barangay Health Centers
• City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO)
Together, we strengthen families, restore hope, and protect every right—and every life.
