DAVAO CITY(November 25) — Talikala, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and empowerment of children, particularly girls, through programs on child rights, education, and gender-based violence prevention, marked the 33rd National Children’s Month by organizing a Girl-Children Congress on November 22.
The event brought together girl representatives from barangays Tibungco, Sasa, Paciano Bangoy, Leon Garcia, 23-C, 5-A, and Matina Aplaya to discuss challenges in their homes, schools, and communities.
The young participants revealed troubling realities: corporal punishment, exclusion, and sexual and economic abuse at home; bullying and corporal punishment in schools; and, as girls, sexual harassment, body shaming, cyberbullying, online luring, teenage pregnancy, substance use, and gang involvement.
Many shared harrowing experiences, including being peeped on while bathing, harassed while riding motorcycles, and coerced online for sexual exploitation.
“These are not just stories; they are cries for help from children who deserve safety and respect,” said Jeanette Ampog, Talikala’s Executive Director. The congress underscores the urgent need for strengthened child protection programs, particularly for girls, who face layered risks in both physical and digital spaces.
By giving girls a voice, Talikala aims to empower children to speak out and advocate for their rights, while urging communities and authorities to act decisively against abuse and exploitation.
