September 2-4, 2025 - Miss Ma. Paula S. Gallardo, RSW, the ECCD Focal Person of the Provincial Government of Surigao del Sur, together with members of the Provincial Council for the Protection of Children (PCPC) from the Nutrition Division and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), participated in the Training of Trainers on Early Childhood Care and Development in Emergencies (ECCDiE) facilitated by the ECCD Council in Davao City.

The training aimed to strengthen the capacity of local government partners and stakeholders to ensure that the needs of young children are prioritized and addressed during emergencies. It emphasized the critical role of ECCD in safeguarding the holistic development, health, safety, and psychosocial well-being of children in times of crisis, while also highlighting strategies for integrating ECCD into emergency preparedness and response plans.

Through lectures, workshops, and practical exercises, participants were equipped with knowledge and skills to cascade ECCDiE training to local implementers, ensuring a wider reach at the community level. The collaboration of social workers, nutrition officers, and disaster response personnel reflects the multi-sectoral approach necessary in addressing the unique vulnerabilities of children in emergency situations.

The participation of Surigao del Sur representatives in this initiative demonstrates the province’s commitment to advancing child protection and development, particularly in building resilient and child-centered emergency response systems.