The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is set to launch on Thursday (February 20) another innovative program designed to foster meaningful connections and mutual enrichment between older persons and children.
Dubbed as “Apo Ko: Kwento ni Lolo’t Lola, Gabay ng Kabataan,” this initiative aims to preserve and pass down the rich Filipino heritage by allowing older persons from the DSWD’s centers and residential care facilities (CRCFs) to share their knowledge and experiences related to cultures, traditions, and practices to young children aged 4 years old who are attending the Early Childhood Development (ECD) sessions or classes.
To be led by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the ‘Apo Ko’ launch will be held at the Haven for the Elderly in Tanay, Rizal on Thursday morning.
“Since the start of the 74th anniversary celebration of the DSWD on February 17, we have launched new programs and services for families, minors, persons in difficult circumstances, and our partners in providing social welfare and development services. Now, we are introducing another initiative for our lolos, lolas, and children,” Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao said on Wednesday (February 19).
According to Asst. Secretary Dumlao, who is also the DSWD spokesperson, the ‘Apo Ko’ is an
intergenerational program designed to improve older persons’ self-fulfilment, their purpose and meaning, while enhancing life skills, promoting social well-being, and nurturing values among children, especially respect and a deep appreciation of their cultural heritage.
The lolos and lolas, who will be called the “Dream Team”, will be capacitated on technical skills including child protection and development before engaging with children.
The Dream Team will consist of senior citizens aged 60 and above who will voluntarily contribute their capabilities and time through the conduct of the Apo, Lola, and Lolo Sessions for Children.
For the pilot implementation, volunteer lolos and lolas will be selected from the DSWD’s Golden Reception and Action Center for the Elderly and Other Special Cases (GRACES) in Quezon City and Haven for the Elderly in Tanay, Rizal while the participating children are from Bahay Bulilit Day Care Center in Quezon City and Sampaloc Child Development Center in Tanay, Rizal.
“The Apo, Lola, and Lolo Sessions for Children are activities that will promote various themes and facets of an individual’s life. These will serve as an avenue for the promotion of active interaction and productive well-being of both children and older persons,” Asst. Secretary Dumlao said.
Older persons and children will also participate in a series of interactive workshops called “Legacy Labs”, where older persons and young children collaborate on hands-on projects that blend traditional skills with modern technology. (YADP)