In the Philippines, many girls are denied basic rights, education, and the chance to experience a carefree childhood. Instead, they are thrust into child labor, taken out of school, and face heightened risks of violence and early pregnancies. This has perpetuated a cycle of abuse and poverty for countless families.
But there is hope. Young women have boundless dreams and limitless potential; they only need a hand to lift them and guide them in the right direction.
As girls seek role models, it’s essential for them to witness women supporting other women and girls, reaffirming the commitment that no one gets left behind. “There are still many challenges that hinder girls from achieving their full potential. Many of them come from poor communities with limited access to opportunities for self-growth. I know that together we can help more Filipino girls, uplifting not only themselves but also their families and communities. I support #GirlsCan!” says Atty. Leni Robredo.
Jasmine Curtis-Smith, World Vision ambassador and child sponsor, highlights the life-changing impact of World Vision’s #GirlsCan campaign, which aims to secure sponsorships for 1,000 girls by October 11. “When you give girls access to life-saving essentials, you are empowering them. Empowered girls grow into women who can lead change.”
Another World Vision ambassador, Janina Vela, urges women to answer the call and support young girls across the country: “For every one of these girls, for every one of the children you choose, you’re changing their world. And as we change their world one at a time, I believe we can collectively change the whole world together.”
Premiere young actress Bianca Umali echoes this sentiment, insisting, “When it comes to helping children, who else will support each other if not us? We are already able to take care of ourselves. If it’s not too much to ask, why don’t we take care of the little girls too?”
Indeed, lives are transformed when we invest in girls – their education, personal development, and futures.
“Back then, I was just a participant in World Vision’s trainings and activities. Those same trainings helped me overcome my weaknesses and become a child leader today,” says Alyza, a sponsored girl. “My sponsor was very supportive, always congratulating me whenever I achieved something in school and encouraging me to pursue my dreams. Their support greatly contributed to my growth. I hope more people will sponsor young girls like me. We have many talents and skills just waiting to be discovered and honed.” Alyza is one of many children who have found greater motivation through the opportunities child sponsorship provides – and she is deeply grateful for the trust, faith, and security she has received.
Another sponsored child, Josephine, learned that World Vision would be launching a sponsorship program in her community. She didn’t fully understand what sponsorship meant, but she had heard that the program could help kids like her go to school. Her mother agreed and signed the seven-year-old up. Shortly after, she was matched with 60-year-old sponsor and retired teacher from Australia.
From poverty to a life of fulfillment, Josephine’s life was transformed through World Vision’s child sponsorship. Today, one of her greatest joys is making the same impact in the lives of other vulnerable children by sponsoring two children through World Vision Philippines. “I think the most significant impact World Vision had on me was my education. Without it, I wouldn’t have the job I do now.”
Now, you can give hundreds of girls the chance to build better lives too. By sponsoring a girl, you provide her with opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. Studies show that when 10% more girls complete their education, they help uplift entire communities. On a larger scale, when girls are educated, a nation’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) can increase by 3%. This means a brighter future for everyone, not just individual girls.
As a community, we have the power to remove the barriers that hold our young women back. With one act of kindness, you can change the entire future of girls and their communities. Sponsor a girl today, and you’ll provide her with education, health care, training, guidance, and so much more.
Join the movement and help World Vision secure sponsorships for many Filipino girls by October 11, the International Day of the Girl. Let’s make #GirlsCan a reality.