DSWD: Psychosocial well-being of kids in evacuation centers also a priority

Amid recent calamities that hit different parts of the country, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD on Tuesday assured that the psychosocial well-being of children displaced by disasters is one of its priorities.

In a statement, DSWD spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the DSWD’s Calabarzon field office initiated recreational activities for children in Mauban, Quezon’s municipal gymnasium on Monday.

The town gymnasium is one of the designated evacuation centers in Quezon for those displaced by then Super Typhoon Uwan.

“Tinitiyak ng DSWD na may pagkakataon ang mga bata na maglaro, makipag-salamuha sa kapwa nila, at maipahayag ang kanilang nararamdaman. Kasing halaga ito ng pagbibigay sa kanila ng pagkain at ligtas na matutuluyan sa ganitong panahon,” Dumlao said.

(The DSWD ensures that children have time to play, engage with other children, and express their feelings. This is as important as giving them food and a safe shelter at this time.)

Dumlao of the DSWD’s Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) said children participated in games, art sessions, and storytelling activities as part of creating a safe and supportive environment amid the calamity.

She said every evacuation center should include spaces that are friendly to women and children as they are among the most vulnerable.

“Ginagawa natin ang mga recreational activities, storytelling sessions, at iba pang programa upang matulungan ang mga bata sa kanilang psychosocial well-being. Ayaw nating may maramdaman silang takot at pangamba hahang nasa loob ng evacuation centers,” Dumlao said.

(We are conducting these recreational activities, storytelling sessions, and other programs to help children with their psychosocial well-being. We don’t want them to feel afraid and anxious while inside the evacuation centers.)

The DSWD leads the Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) efforts of the government and oversees the operations and management of evacuation centers to ensure the safety and well-being of all evacuees.

“Bilang lead ng CCCM, tiniyak namin na lahat ng bata at pamilya sa evacuation centers ay may sapat na pagkain, ligtas na tirahan, at pagkakataon na maipahayag ang kanilang nararamdaman. Bahagi ito ng holistic na tulong ng DSWD sa mga pinaka-bulnerable sa panahon ng sakuna,” Dumlao added.

(As the lead for CCCM, we ensured that all children and families in evacuation centers have enough food, a safe shelter, and opportunities to express their sentiments. This is part of the DSWD’s holistic assistance for the most vulnerable in times of calamities.) — JMA, GMA Integrated News