Kids on Project Photography launched in Davao

Prior to attending the Strategic Planning Workshop of NCCA in Davao last February, I went to visit a children’s shelter which I found on the net. This is the PAG-AMOMA Children’s Place located in Calinan, Davao at the back of the Robillo Hospital along the Davao-Bukidnon Highway. 

From the airport, I went straight to PAG-AMOMA by hiring a taxi. I was fortunate to have met and communicated with Ms. Ludette Badelles, director of the center, through emails. I just got excited to see the children since I know they have a class but they were asked not to attend class in the afternoon to welcome me. Mommy Liza, the house parent was there to introduce the children and the programs of their institution. 

PAG-AMOMA is a Visayan word that means “to nurture.” They were organized in 1984. This institution is a SEC registered and a DSWD licensed local foundation for children and families that started as a community based early childhood development program popularly called day care for preschool children in uptown community of Mandug in Davao City. 

After a roller coaster ride of experiences in carrying out their missions they are revitalized with some of their new mission objectives such as reaching children by empowering parents and providing support systems for children in various contexts, providing alternative family care and education support to orphaned and abandoned children from the uplands to lessen the street children phenomenon, partnering with communities, groups and agencies to organize local children & family support systems and initiating Education and Peace Mobile program for children and families in the rural far-flung areas. 

At present, they have a total of 18 children from the various entnic groups in Davao. I appreciate so much the courteousness of the children. They kiss the hands of every elders visiting.

An 8-year boy opened the gate for me and escorted me inside. I met Ms Ludette and I was introduced to Dr. Rovillo and foreign guests. The children prepared a welcome program for me. They performed dances and songs. They are so talented. They even held a rondalla performance led by Mommy Lisa before I left. 

I delivered a lecture on basic photography on a casual setting, squatting on the floor. I asked them if they had the experience handling a camera and they said they never had the chance. I was happy that I was there to share knowledge of photography and was able to launch the Kids on Project Photography. 

After the basic photography lecture, I asked them to go hands on, a workshop for all of them as they take turns in using the available cameras. The kids were so enthusiastic to learn  photography. It was indeed a fun shoot for all of them. We also had a group shot. It was a remembrance of our first great meeting and workshop.