The health situation remains very worrying in the Philippines, forcing girls to stay in the centers. Moreover, the staff of CAMELEON remained very active throughout the summer, supporting the girls. Many activities were offered to young beneficiaries and parents from the communities.

Activities for young beneficiaries

The young girls survivor of sexual abuse had the opportunity to discover new activities such as sewing at the Negros Center. These workshops led by one of the Housemothers allowed beneficiaries to learn how to make a pattern (measurement, marking), to cut fabric and to use a sewing machine. After some practice, they will know how to sew pillowcases and aprons.

At the Passi Center, the young girls celebrated the end of Nutrition Month at the end of July! A special event was organized to allow the young beneficiaries to strengthen their creativity, unity and sportsmanship. Various activities (parade, dance competition, conferences and poetry) were carried out around the importance of good nutrition and good health which are two important elements in the reconstruction program for young girls survivor of sexual abuse.

Assisting with parenthood

In Negros, a seminar on parenting was also organized. 38 parents and guardians of young beneficiaries were made aware of the importance of family in the healing process of girls survivor of sexual abuse: what role and how can they positively influence the behavior of their children? It is a key approach in the prevention of violence against children. The seminar was moderated by Emilea Villacencio, former Director of the office of social action and development of the city of Silay in the Philippines.

Departure ceremonies

Summer and the end of the school year also mean departures. The traditional “sending-off” ceremonies took place in the two CAMELEON Centers in Passi and Negros. 20 young girls survivor of sexual abuse left the “Personal Rebuilding” program because they are now ready to join the “Rehabilitation and Autonomy” program. They will be able to reunite with their families (if any danger is eliminated), a foster family or our student hostel in Iloilo. It was not without emotion that they said goodbye to their House mothers and other daughters with whom they had spent many years. Of course, their support by CAMELEON and their sponsorships continue for this very important second step in their process of personal reconstruction.

The Family House

In Gines Nuevo, the construction of the Family House (Balay Panimalay) is progressing. Electrical facilities setting up, plumbing and other finishing works (door panels, mosquito nets) were completed. Professionals and committed volunteers from the communities are working hand in hand on this great project. Our partner, Atelier FIJI made an on-site visit to ensure the progress and proper completion of the construction work

Soon, this place will host training and workshops in order to facilitate exchanges between communities, but also to diversify and strengthen our development programs and activities for families and disadvantaged rural communities. Many thanks to Apprentis d’Auteuil for making this project possible.

Young CAMELEON Ambassadors

CAMELEON’s Young Health Ambassadors (CYHA) have also remained active and continue to carry out their preventive actions in the Philippines. They recently unveiled the video titled “CONFESSION”

Through this video, they want to break the silence around incest in the Philippines.