On March 18, 2026, Project COMPACT together with BLGU New Canaan, Save the Children Philippines, Fhalami Canaan Habal-Habal Drivers Association, Tubad I Kasbakas Integrated Farmers Association, Satlaban Dad Nga Mda De Barangay New Canaan, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and New Canaan Integrated School conducted a Barangay-Level Advocacy and Service Convergence Activity at New Canaan Integrated School in Alabel, Sarangani Province.
The activity brought the community together to raise awareness on the prevention of Child, Early, and Forced Marriage and Union (CEFMU), adolescent pregnancy, and gender-based violence (GBV). A locally developed child protection referral pathway, crafted with the MSWDO, MHO, and DepEd, was introduced to guide community members in reporting cases and ensuring timely support for children, youth, and women.
Barangay Captain Hon. Benjie Balando underscored that early marriage is a public crime under RA 11596, reinforcing the communityโs role in protecting children. Mr. Jordan Simbanan, member of Fhalami Canaan Habal-Habal Drivers Association further elaborated on the lawโs provisions and the detrimental impact of early unions on adolescent health. Ms. Virgie S. Lani, member of Tubad I Kasbakas Integrated Farmers Association detailed the referral pathway process. Supporting this mission, the childrenโs group, the Satlaban Dad Nga Mda De Barangay New Canaan distributed IEC materials on child safeguarding and the Magna Carta for Women to Supreme Secondary Learner Government (SSLG) Officers.
Alongside the advocacy sessions, essential services were delivered through the Purok Kalusugan initiative. Community members, including 4Ps beneficiaries and parents, accessed medical checkups, medicines, and assistance with Pag IBIG and PhilHealth membership through the support of barangay health workers, nutrition scholars, emergency response teams, and nurses.
This convergence of advocacy and services strengthens a shared commitment to a safer, healthier, and more responsive community for every child and family.
