The SaLInLAHI project is a community-based effort by the DSWD focused on safeguarding the rights and well-being of Sama-Bajau children aged 0-4 years through early childhood care and development (ECCD) services.
Grounded in rights-based and culture-based approaches, this undertaking aligns with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (Republic Act 8371) of the Philippines.
SaLInLAHI aims to provide culture-based learning sessions, enhance family education, and assist families and indigenous leaders in protecting young children.
The primary beneficiaries are Sama-Bajau children and their parents, focusing on creating a supportive and resilient community.
What is the SaLInLAHI Project?
SaLInLAHI is a community-based approach by the DSWD, grounded in rights-based, child protection, and culture-based approaches. It aims to safeguard and promote the rights and well-being of poor Sama-Bajau children through early childhood care and development (ECCD) services. This aligns with both the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (Republic Act 8371) of the Philippines.
Objectives of the SaLInLAHI Project
The SaLInLAHI project aims to achieve several goals:
- Provide Culture-Based Learning: This offers age-appropriate and culture-based learning sessions for Sama-Bajau children aged 3-4 years, preparing them for regular education.
- Strengthen Family Education: It enhances paternal, maternal, and child care education to prevent maternal and child mortality among the Sama-Bajau.
- Assist Families and Leaders: This approach aims to reinforce the support system of families and indigenous leaders in protecting children aged 0-4 years old.
Target Beneficiaries
The primary beneficiaries of the SaLInLAHI project include:
- Sama-Bajau Children: Focused on those aged 0-4 years old in ethnic or cultural communities.
- Parents of Sama-Bajau Children: The program also targets the parents to foster a supportive environment for the children’s development.
Components of the SaLInLAHI Program
The SaLInLAHI project comprises three main components designed to cultivate the holistic development of the Sama-Bajau community:
- Culture-based Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Sessions
- These sessions use the traditional knowledge and practices of the Sama-Bajau, making them ideal for the development of children aged 0-4 years.
- Empowering Learning Sessions for the Indigenous Peoples Initiatives (ELIPI)
- These sessions are intended for the parents of Sama-Bajau children enrolled in the ECCD sessions. They promote active participation in community development and the preservation of cultural heritage.
- Organization of Sama-Bajau Volunteers
- This component involves organizing and mobilizing Sama-Bajaus through the ELIPI to become partners in advocacy campaigns and implementation.
Pilot Areas
The SaLInLAHI project was initially piloted in specific areas, including:
- Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija (Region III)
- Manila, Parañaque, and Taguig (National Capital Region)
Key Results from the Pilot Implementation
The pilot implementation yielded significant results:
- Over 70% of Sama-Bajau children in the pilot areas participated in ECCD sessions by the end of 2015.
- Sama-Bajau parents and youth created 21 storybooks familiar to the children.
- The program enjoyed strong parental support, with 90% of parents attending community assemblies and volunteering.
- There was only a 1% dropout rate among ECCD students.
- 95% of children who participated in ECCD sessions continued to primary school.
- 98% of child beneficiaries showed a weight increase of at least 3 kilos after receiving health and food supplementary services.
Step-by-Step Guide on how to take part in the DSWD SaLInLAHI Project
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Collect your child’s birth certificate.
- Make sure to keep a copy of your child’s ECCD enrollment papers.
Step 2: Contact the DSWD SaLInLAHI Team
- Reach out to the DSWD SaLInLAHI team through their designated contact channels.
- Provide the necessary documents and information about your child’s ECCD enrollment.
Step 3: Attend Sessions
- Participate in the SaLInLAHI sessions, which are designed to promote active participation in your child’s ECCD.
- These sessions aim to enhance your child’s learning and development through culture-based approaches.
Step 4: Engage with the Community
- Engage with other parents and the community through the SaLInLAHI.
- This will help you build connections and support networks for your child’s development.
Step 5: Monitor Progress
- Monitor your child’s progress through regular assessments and evaluations.
- This will help you track their development and identify areas where they need additional support.
Step 6: Continue Support
- Continue to participate in the SaLInLAHI project and engage with the community.
- This will help your child continue to receive aid and opportunities for growth.
By following these steps, you can help your child get the needed assistance and resources from the DSWD SaLInLAHI Project.
Who are the Sama-Bajau?
The Sama-Bajau are an indigenous group known for their seafaring lifestyle. Every year, many Sama-Bajau families migrate from Mindanao to Manila, especially during the Christmas season. These migrations often lead to families living on the streets, hoping for assistance. A deeper understanding of their plight and cultural background is essential for providing effective support.
Video: DSWD, hinimok ang mga Badjao sa Jolo, Sulu na huwag nang mamalimos
The DSWD has urged the Badjao community in Jolo, Sulu, to refrain from begging as part of efforts to promote sustainable livelihoods and self-reliance. By encouraging alternative income-generating activities, the DSWD aims to help the community in achieving financial independence and dignity.
Conclusion
The SaLInLAHI project by the DSWD stands as a testament to the power of culturally sensitive and community-based interventions.
By focusing on the early education and development of Sama-Bajau children and involving their parents in the process, this approach aims to create a supportive and resilient community.
Continued efforts and support for such activities will undoubtedly lead to lasting positive impacts on the lives of the Sama-Bajau and other indigenous groups.
Contact Information: Social Technology Bureau
For questions or concerns about the SaLInLAHI project, reach out to the Social Technology Bureau (STB) at the DSWD Central Office in Quezon City.
Address: Social Technology Bureau, 3rd Floor, Matapat Building, Department of Social Welfare and Development – Central Office, IBP Road, Constitution Hills, Batasan Complex, Quezon City
Telephone: +632 8951 7124 / 8951 2802 / 8931 8144
Email: soctech@dswd.gov.ph
Website: DSWD STB