As of 2010, the total population of the Philippines is 94.6 million (http://www.tradingeconomics.com/philippines/population) and a scary portion of it consists of street children – an alarming estimated figure of 1.2 million (http://www.homelessworldcup.org/content/homelessness-statistics).
For sure this issue is not new to us anymore, specially that we belong to a developing country. If the countries with tiger economies, more disciplined people and responsible leaders like the USA, China and Australia are suffering from the inevitably pitiful sights of homeless children, how much more the Philippines having none of the characteristics mentioned?
It seems as though that even if this social problem has long been of existence, not a significant alleviation has been seen. Despite the efforts said to be made by the government and non-government organizations, it is but discernible and obvious that still, much has to be done. Somehow it lets us think, has any applicable move been done? If yes, then why are we still tormented with this centuries-old problem? Or have we just failed to identify the real problem?
Confusing the believed-to-be problem with the real problem will definitely lead mankind to a wrong solution. Stop all the sloppy thinking everyone. The roots of this scary odd growth number of street children can be traced if we think on a critical way.
First, the problem may be because of lack of education and knowledge. Has anyone heard about a government or NGO program that compels teenagers and aspiring people of wedlock to a seminar about family planning and responsible parenthood? Nope, doesn’t ring a bell. Apparently, these street children are products of juvenile delinquency, family problems, social and civil unrest and parental negligence. More and more people are bringing a life to the earth without even thinking about the consequences it would bring. Seems like they enjoyed the concept of intercourse a lot. As soon as an individual reaches the legal age of 18, the government should subject him to a seminar about responsible parenthood. As soon as a couple registers for marriage, they should be taught about the importance of family planning. Unfortunately, we haven’t heard of any.
Second, the problem may be grounded in the roots of poverty. Yes, the endless issue of poverty in the Philippines despite the huge tourism rates, abnormal towering talent fees of celebrities, vast agricultural land and the palace-like houses of government officials. They say that the Philippines has increased in GDP by this and that, but, have the people from rural areas felt the development? Are the less fortunate people been given sustainable livelihood programs to be able to teach them how to fish? Taking fresh from raw reality, these financially challenged people have no choice but to ask for fishes from greedy fishermen.
What now, shall we just end this talk with some blaming and pointing of fingers? My friends, no. Let’s stop being termites to the country that we have. If the government can’t solve this problem, then let’s do our own share of effort. Yes, your act of reporting to social welfare agencies plus my effort for finding education sponsors will help. Don’t just stop doing the right thing because you are losing hope. Hope is the only rope we can hold on to when all else fails. You have endured reading this long post, I am sure you are patient enough to reach out a hand.
julyannmugot 