SHIELD Initiative: Safeguarding the Next Generation

Smiles from children can be one of the most fulfilling experiences as an adult. Their joy is pure, untainted by the complexities of life. That’s what makes moments like these, when we invest in their future, even more rewarding.

I initially thought it would be just another Sunday—a routine day spent with people who, like me, share the common goal of giving back. But August 25, 2024, at the Archival's Eco House in Sitio Ylaya, Barangay Talamban, became much more than that.

The Rotaract Club of Cebu Fuente (RCCF) conducted “SHIELD: Sanitation and Health Initiative and Effective Levels of Disease Prevention” in collaboration with Rotaract Clubs from Freeport Zone (Subic Bay), Metro Valencia, and Tagbilaran. It was a day dedicated to teaching, connecting, and inspiring children. A momentous day when their young minds were introduced to essential lessons that could shape their futures.

Early learning is crucial—it sets the stage for a lifetime of growth. What children absorb in their formative years directly impacts their health, success, and behavior later on. These early experiences either build a strong foundation or create obstacles to their development. Our goal was to provide them with that strong foundation through practical knowledge that they could carry with them throughout life.

Be a Buddy, Not a Bully

One of the core topics we addressed was bullying—an issue that cuts across every aspect of childhood and adolescent development. We explained to the children what bullying is, how it impacts their mental and emotional well-being, and why it must never be tolerated.

Bullying isn’t just a childhood issue; its scars can last well into adulthood. It can lead to isolation, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Recent data from the PISA 2022 report showed a staggering reality: one in three Filipino students is bullied in schools. That translates to 43% of girls and 53% of boys—numbers significantly higher than the global average of 20% for girls and 21% for boys. This is why the RCCF initiative sought to educate children early on, equipping them to recognize, prevent, and stand up against bullying.

Dengue Puksain: Ating Tungkulin para sa Mas Ligtas na Bukas

We also addressed dengue prevention, a vital lesson given the rising number of cases in the Philippines. The Department of Health recorded a 19% increase in dengue cases during the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. From January to June, over 90,000 cases were reported, a sharp rise from the 75,968 recorded the previous year.

Dengue remains a significant health threat, particularly for children who are more susceptible to the disease due to their weaker immune systems. Teaching kids the importance of eliminating stagnant water, using mosquito repellents, and understanding the symptoms of dengue could make a life-saving difference. Prevention starts with education, and that's what we aim to provide—a safer, more informed future generation.

Bye Bye, Wormie

Another important focus of our movement was intestinal worms, which still affect a large portion of children in the Philippines. A recent survey revealed that about 20% of Filipino children suffer from parasitic worm infections, which can lead to malnutrition, stunted growth, and cognitive delays. Worms can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, and poor hygiene practices, making awareness and education critical.

By teaching children about the importance of regular deworming and proper sanitation, we are helping them avoid the physical and developmental setbacks caused by these infections. Basic habits, like washing fruits and vegetables, wearing shoes, and using clean toilets, can go a long way in preventing these infections.

Proper Handwashing

Handwashing is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent illness. According to the World Health Organization, proper handwashing can reduce the spread of diseases by up to 50%. This simple habit can prevent infections like diarrhea, pneumonia, and the spread of respiratory infections. For children, learning proper handwashing techniques from an early age is crucial. It’s not just about washing hands before meals—it’s about understanding when and how to do it effectively.

During the affair, we taught the kids the “20-second rule,” stressing that thorough handwashing can prevent the transmission of many diseases, including colds, flu, and even COVID-19. We made it fun, showing them through songs and engaging activities, helping them understand that healthy habits protect them and those around them.

In events like these, we don’t just pass on knowledge—we plant seeds of change. Seeds that will grow into healthier, more mindful individuals. And as we shared smiles with the children, I realized it wasn’t just about teaching—it was about leaving a legacy.

Written by Trixcy Clar, Rotaract Club of Cebu Fuente, Rotary International District 3860