Bantay Bata 163

An immediate response to the growing cases of child abuse of any form, the Bantay Bata 163 hotline was initiated by the ABS-CBN Foundation. Children in distress could call up the 163 hotline number and they will be provided response in accord to their needs. There are eight counselors who work in regular shifts who have gone through intensive training and development to provide the appropriate response to such calls. An adjunct establishment is the well-equipped Crisis Center which is a temporary home for children in distress who have yet to be transferred to an appropriate child caring institution. Well-trained social workers and psychologists also provide short-term psychological rehabilitation. Once an appropriate institution is found, the child is arranged for transfer to a long-term rehabilitation. There are also what they call the "walk-in days' where medical, financial and other concerns are tackled.

In line with their vision and mission to "create a better world for our children...now and in the future," and ABS-CBN’s "position as a media-based organization gives them the distinct capacity to inform, educate and mobilize resources in our efforts to rescue and rehabilitate children-in-crisis," Bantay Bata has other activities which, in turn, involve the Philippine society in their mission.

The coinbank, "Barya Mo, Buhay Ko" ("Your coin, My Life"), encourages privileged children (adults too!) to learn the value of saving and contributing for a cause and that even the mere donation of a few coins added to the meager contribution of others could make a big difference in the lives of children in distress. All the used cans are being recycled for seedlings to be planted in. Being child and earth savers all at the same time, sparing coins has never been this worthwhile before!

To reach out to more people willing to help, direct mailing packages are also distributed. These packages contain options on how one could help and data of where their help is benefited from the most.

Barangay visits are being done to monitor, follow-up and keep in touch with children who have been successfully rehabilitated. Outreach programs are also organized to extend help to children not particularly distressed by any abuse but distressed by the injustices of poverty. Examples of Bantay Bata's outreach programs are Medical Mission, Seminar on Family Life, and the distribution of goodies.

Contact Information:
ABS-CBN Foundation, Bantay Bata 163
http://www.abs-cbn.com
Email: bataybata163@abs-cbn.com