Ties that Bind: the Gathering of Champions for Children

Every six (6) months, the strength of the National Council of Social Development’s (NCSD) 145 member organizations come together in a general assembly to talk, to flex their muscles and to test the ties that bind them.  The 63-year old pioneer network of non-government organizations (NGOs) buckled down to the normal order of business of focusing on social interventions for the most vulnerable group in the Philippines — the children.

The gathering last July 24, 2012 at The Aristocrat Restaurant in Manila once again proved that the ties remain strong and efficient to pull the members toward their lofty goal “to Move Ahead through Networking, Advocacy and Social Legislation”.

As one looks around the room, one feels somewhat intimidated by the personages present – stalwarts of NCSD and champions of children in need of special protection.  Despite being distracted by the modest but delicious lunch, one cannot help but feel the vibes of exciting mixed feelings — compassion, concern, sympathy, love, joy, and power.

Ms. Sonia Cueto is one who elicits such emotions over the long term.  Her life’s work, which she shared unselfishly, inspired me.  Ms. Tessie Silva’s advocacy work for children motivated us to do more than what we think we can do.  The quiet but powerful support of Ms. Nora Abarientos of World Vision demonstrated what belief and political will can do to help protect and promote children’s rights. To cap these off, Ms. Gwen Pimentel-Gana, threw in her knowledge as a lawyer and advocate, and her willingness to harness the power of her clan to better the condition of children.

Each contributed their abilities and resources, however humble or sizeable, for the love of children.  Each of us came out richer in experience and knowledge, including Ms. Flordeliz D. Fankhauser of Onesimo Bulilit Foundation and her husband, who brought their baby to the forum.

Provocative topics were discussed which gave participants the chance to rethink and straighten out priority issues of their own organizations. Aligning with like-minded colleagues and agencies where symbiotic relations were strengthened and developed was the order of the day, but best of all, new friendships were forged and old friendships were revitalized.

This tradition and practice that started 63 years ago with the social development leaders are sustained by exercises such as the 2012 NCSD Midyear Assembly that is being held for present and future leaders to advance the cause of children in need of special protection. — By Sandra Camesa, NCSD President