In an effort to keep children off the streets,  the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)  and partner-local government units (LGUs) and non-government organizations (NGOs) maintain 58 activity centers located in strategic areas in Metro Manila.

“These activity centers were identified to provide a venue for an alternative means to  offer  street children some activities away from the dangers of the streets.  Nais natin silang i-involve sa mga activities tulad ng pagbabasa, paglalaro, habang binibigyan sila ng access sa pagkain at iba pang resources upang di na nila kailangang pumunta sa lansangan,” DSWD Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo said.

Located in 17 LGUs of the National Capital Region (NCR), the activity centers are either managed by the LGUs or NGOs  in partnership with the DSWD-NCR Field Office.  These are open year-round but activities peak during the Christmas season for the conduct of Christmas parties,  caroling sessions, and gift giving, among others to ensure that children will no longer ask for some cash from commuters.

“DSWD is currently assessing the functionality of the activity centers Metro Manila-wide.  We believe the use of the activity centers is a good strategy in responding to the issue of street children. We intend to provide more support to the existing centers, enhance the features and the activities being conducted, so we can better respond to the evolving needs of the children,” the Secretary continued.

The Department and the LGUs are aware that the children go out on the streets for various activities, which are mainly to generate money or ask for food.  It is also observed that the prevalence of street children substantially increases during the Christmas season.

“We appeal to all concerned sectors to collaborate with the LGUs and the DSWD in consolidating responses for the street children/street families through the activity centers.  Alms-giving and gift-giving on the streets must not be encouraged as these pose dangers to the lives of the children. As part of our true and may malasakit na serbisyo, let us work together to find the best response to the needs of the children,” Sec. Taguiwalo further said.

Groups and individuals who are interested to conduct social activities for street children may go directly to the activity centers. Here is the list: