The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will expand the pilot implementation of the Project ProtecTEEN in National Capital Region and Region 4-A to provide psychosocial support and other interventions for teenage mothers and their families in the regions.

The Department is set to roll out the project in Malabon City in Metro Manila and Antipolo City in Rizal Province in the second semester of 2022. Likewise, a Memorandum of Agreement and Pledge of Commitment will be signed between the DSWD, local chief executives of the concerned local government units, and other partner-agencies at the local level to signify their commitment in responding to the teenage pregnancy issue in the country.

The ProtecTEEN, which was launched in Malaybalay, Bukidnon in August, is the newest intervention of the Department that is included in the government’s Social Protection Program for Adolescent Mothers and Their Children. It intends to create a supportive environment for adolescent mothers and their families by empowering them through the provision of direct social services and assistance, referral to other agencies, and organizing peer advocates.

With its framework, the project targets to cater to the needs, protect the rights, and promote the psychosocial well-being of adolescent mothers aged 10 to 19 years old, their children, partners, and other household members who provide support to them.

The DSWD, through the expansion of Project ProtecTEEN, continues to empower young mothers so they could be better at performing their social and parenting duties. ###