Children and the gift of giving

MANILA, Philippines - Nowhere is Christmastime more festive and more celebrated than in the Philippines. As early as September, Christmas carols fill the air and decorations adorn homes, malls and offices, bringing cheer to people young and old. Christmastime also brings a special sense of wonderment and magic for Filipino children, who delight in caroling, aguinaldo from ninongs and ninangs, and special Noche Buena feasts.

Unfortunately, not all Filipino children get to enjoy the cheer that comes with Christmas because some of them live in poverty, are sick, abused, neglected or under threat.

This Christmas, give the gift of love and compassion to all Filipino children by buying UNICEF cards and gifts. With each purchase, you will become part of a community of people helping to save, improve and protect the lives of some of the Philippines’ most disadvantaged children, with one hundred percent of each purchase going to UNICEF’s programs in Early Childhood Education and the Child Friendly School System (CFSS). The program lets day care students receive learning and play materials so that their physical, social, cognitive and psychological skills are developed to the fullest, getting them ready to enter grade school and lessen their chances of dropping out.

The Child Friendly School System aims to make public schools and teachers better equipped. Teachers are trained on how to provide a better environment for learning and make lessons stimulating. CFSS schools receive books, globes, maps, science equipment, hygiene kits and when necessary, water and sanitation facilities. Child-friendly schools help children stay in school and increase their chances of completing their primary education. 

With the recent natural calamities affecting millions of Filipino children, protecting the environment is of even greatert concern for UNICEF, that is why only wood and paper from managed forests are used.

UNICEF cards and gifts are available at select Fully Booked, Rustan’s, Hobbes and Landes and Kidz Station outlets. For inquiries, call 901-0160, 901-0164 or check out the online catalog at http:/ /unicef.ph. Corporate bulk orders available.