Hear a whistle? It could be a child with disability calling for help

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – Children with disabilities on Panay Island will be receiving whistles, which they can blow to call for help when they are in trouble.

This was announced by the non-governmental group ChildFund Philippines, which launched on Thursday, December 3, the Whistle for Protection Campaign. The project aims to provide children with disabilities with whistles that they can use to send distress signals.

“Whistles are shrill and loud and can be heard. Oftentimes, these children with disability have limited strength to shout out for help,” said Katherine Manik, ChildFund Philippines national director.

The organization, which advocates children’s right and protection, is assisting at least 200 children with disabilities in Bacolod City, and some 200 in other areas on Panay Island.

Project specialist Allan Nuñez said that most of the children under their care have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and intellectual disability.

He said that the campaign also aims to build capacity with different stakeholders, teachers, parents, and the local community in handling and managing cases involving abuses.

Manik said they are closely working with communities to support children with disability to “build their capacity to protect themselves.”

Parents and guardians will also be trained so they can quickly respond if a child is in trouble.

The program was initially launched in Bacolod City, and will be introduced in other areas on the island in the next few months. – Rappler.com