BREAKING NEWS!

DSWD, CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH CHILD CARE CENTER

BY: ANGELICA ARQUERO 

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) marked the 35th anniversary of its Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) by highlighting the life-changing stories of once-abandoned and abused children who are now thriving professionals.

One of them is Ryan Gayagay, now a cheerful and dedicated English teacher.

Behind his smile is a painful past, abused and mistreated by his parents, Ryan ran away from home at age 13 and lived on the streets until he was rescued by DSWD officers.

“When I was brought here by the police, I was nervous and unsure where I would be taken,” Ryan recalled. “But the staff were kind. They fed and clothed us. They made us feel safe.”

Ryan stayed at the center for nearly a year before being reunited with his family.

Inspired by the care and support he received, he pursued a career in teaching and now dedicates his life to guiding young students. “The library here helped me learn to read. That’s why I became a teacher,” he said.

Today, Ryan is just one of the thousands of children who have been helped by RSCC since its establishment in the 1990s.

At the anniversary celebration, DSWD-CAR Regional Director Maria A. Catbagan-Aplaten honored the staff and house parents who played vital roles in the center’s journey.

“This is more than a celebration; it’s a homecoming. We’re thankful to everyone who has been part of RSCC’s mission,” she said.

According to DSWD, 21 children have already received assistance this year, including one adoption case. In 2024, the center provided care for 54 children.

Despite limited psychological support, the staff continues to welcome visitors to help provide meaningful interactions for the children.

Those interested in supporting RSCC’s mission are welcome to extend help, as the center remains open to donations and volunteer efforts.

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