By Bernadette V. Mallete and Erika Joy Baliguat
“Nasa eskwelahan ka dapat, naga-adal, nangangarap,” a line delivered by a child actress portraying a development worker. The actress stressed the priorities of a child to the main actress tangled in a precariously difficult situation: bearing a child and providing for oneself.
This was one of the memorable excerpts from the theater piece delivered by performers from Castilla Municipal Children’s Federation last July 4, for the Bata, Bida Ka! held by Educo Philippines at the Pilar Gymnasium, Pilar, Sorsogon with more than 300 participants celebrating the culmination of Projects CAST, STEPS, and Child Gov. Apart from the ceremonial agenda, the children also showcased their talents through instrumental performances, song, dance, and theater as creative expressions of patriotism and advocacy.
The event opened with the parade of child leaders, volunteers, and stakeholders from the municipalities of Sorsogon followed by a remarkable live performance of the national anthem and doxology produced by the rondalla and dance ensemble of the Pilar National Comprehensive High School.
Dynamic entertainment was further provided through song numbers performed by talented children volunteers from participating municipalities.
In the afternoon, the awaited one-act play was delivered by performers from Castilla Municipal Children’s Federation, addressing the perplexities of teenage pregnancy resulting in child labor that reiterated the responsibilities of children, parents, and stakeholders.
“Bilang magulang, tayo ay may responsibilidad sa ating mga anak. Tayo ay magsisilbing ehemplo at giya ng ating mga anak upang mapabuti ang kanilang mga kinabukasan,” movingly delivered by another actress portraying the pregnant Lean’s mother, as the play neared its end. She was joined by her fellow actors, directly addressing the audience composed of members of various age groups, reminding them of their different roles and obligations in societies, all unified in ensuring a safe future for children.
Through their outstanding theatrics, their message about the responsibilities of the holders and protectors of children’s rights was well delivered.
“We are a [children’s] organization and we have our own advocacy about child labor, and we envisio a safe community where every child is free from child labor and has the right to learn and read.”, said by the company of child actors and actresses delivering the play’s final message.
The vitality of education must not be deprived from children as it is their fundamental human right—not only does it help them reach their full potential as individuals and future leaders, but it also contributes to building a strong and safe community fostering a sustainable future where every voice is listened to, leaving no one behind.
