The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office X (DSWD FO X), through the Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP), launches WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) campaign in Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) centers across the region.

The campaign emphasizes the importance of WASH practices in preventing diseases, promoting better health outcomes, and enhancing children’s learning capacities.

A WASH and LEARN orientation was conducted in each province, attended by 765 Child Development Workers (CDWs) from various cities and municipalities.

Key messages focused on proper sanitation, safe drinking water, and regular handwashing. The campaign highlighted three essential WASH behaviors: using the toilet for defecation and urination, proper handwashing techniques, and ensuring safe drinking water.

Participants engaged in interactive activities such as group discussions, comprehensive sessions, and workshops to better understand the practical aspects of WASH implementation in their centers.

An engaging segment, titled “Ang Kuwentong Tae,” humorously yet effectively addressed the serious issue of open defecation and its health implications.

A significant discussion during the orientation was the gap between WASH program intentions and actual implementation, addressing challenges like the lack of child-friendly facilities, poor infrastructure maintenance, and insufficient resources.

Through WASH integration, DSWD aims to ensure every child has access to clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene education, creating a holistic approach to child development.

SFP is a vital component of the DSWD’s efforts to combat malnutrition and improve the health of Filipino children.