BCPC develops life

An interview with Senior Pastor Domingo Plomantes Sr. on how HLAF guided them in a functioning BCPC.

Nagkaroon ako ng tyansa na makausap si Senior Pastor Domingo Plomantes Sr., ang secretary ng Barangay Talon Uno upang kamustahin ang kanilang BCPC (Barangay Council for the Protection of Children).

Tinanong ko sya kung paano nakatulong ang HLAF sa kanilang BCPC at ano ang naging kahalagahan nito sa kanilang barangay. Sinabi nya na noong wala pang BCPC, hindi nila alam ang gagawin nila sa mga batang CAR (Child at Risk) at CICL (Children in Conflict with the Law) dahil walang proseso ang kanilang barangay para dito. Nakita n’ya ang mga problema ng mga bata sa kanilang barangay noong hindi maayos ang konseho nila dito. “Palibhasa, wala pa ngang batas noon, hindi konkreto ang management sa mga bata, walang BCPC, walang tumutulong”.

“Malaking tulong ang HLAF sa paggabay sa aming mga nanunungkulan sa barangay upang ma-fully implement namin ang JJWA (Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act)”.

Sinabi rin nya na napababa na ng kanilang barangay ang level of criminal acts ng mga bata. “Simula noong magkaroon kami ng BCPC sa barangay, at maayos na ipinapatupad ito, kasama ng mga organisasyon at local na pamahalaan na ang layunin ay tulungan ang mga bata; ay nabibigyan na namin ng intervention programs ang mga CAR, habang diversion programs naman para sa mga CICL”.

“Natuto kami ng tamang kalakaran sa HLAF BCPC Congress kasama ng ibang barangay.”

Nagkakaroon rin sila ng monthly meetings with children and parents, “nagkakaroon lamang ng challenges sa coordination with the parents, kasama ng homeowner’s association, kasi alam naman natin na mayroon din silang ibang schedules”.

We also monitor schools. “Hindi biro ang manungkulan sa BCPC, you develop life”.

Sana maunawaan ng mga kapitan at ng mga sangguniang council natin na we are developing, building, a certain life”.

Nagkaroon na rin ang kanilang mga eskwelahan ng SBCPC (School-Based Committee for the Protection of Children) na nagsasagawa ng guidance counselling, monitoring of grades, at ibang programa para sa mga estudyanteng daycare, grade school, at high school. Pinapanatili naming maayos ang monitoring system sa mga eskwelahan at isinasaayos ang coordination ng mga magulang.

“Para sa akin, napakagandang programa ng BCPC Talon Uno ang Sunday formation with the Church kasama ng mga magulang dahil nagbi-build ng effective communication ang magandang pagsasama ng pamilya”.  Nagkakaroon rin sila ng Home Visitations sa kanilang barangay upang kamustahin ang lagay ng mga bata sa kanilang barangay, una nilang tinitingnan ang kalusugan at kung pumapasok ang mga bata.

Failure of Parenting is seen to be the most dominant problem why children commit wrongdoings. “Bini-build up namin sila (pamilya), we destroy barricades that hinder them from communication and openness to create family development”.

Noong tinanong ko s’ya kung sino ang dapat na mga katulong sa BCPC, sinabi nya na “Kailangan maging very cooperative and understanding ang mga kapitan with the chairman of the BCPC. Kailangan ng great teamwork ng lahat ng kasapi upang mapaganda ang buhay ng mga bata.”

Isa pa, Kailangan concrete ang BCPC sa buong Pilipinas para mas mapababa pa lalo ang mga kaso ng mga bata. Malaking tulong ang ginagawa ng HLAF sa nasabing BCPC, sa pagtulong nila upang fully-mai-implement ang batas para sa mga bata.

Isa pa, malaking tulong ang partnership with organizations, faith-based organizations and volunteers sapagkat nabibigyan ng tamang gabay, tamang programa (maaaring ayon sa kanilang gusto ngunit tinitingnan rin kung paano mabibigyan ng importansya ang gusto ng bata).

“Ang BCPC ay one of the most important councils in the barangay, naaalala ko nung Kabataan ko ang kanilang mga sitwasyon, kung tutuusin napakaswerte ko na kahit ganito ang nangyari sa akin, may pamilya akong nakakasama. Yun din sana ang gusto kong mangyari sa kanila, plano ng Diyos ito para sa akin, na baguhin at ayusin ang buhay ng mga batang ito”.

“Kaya’t laking pasasalamat na rin namin sa HLAF na natulungan at nagabayan ang aming barangay”.

He happily shared that Brgy. Talon Uno has been twice awarded as the “Most Outstanding Child-Friendly Barangay” in two consecutive years because of the programs in their BCPC and how they handle the children, and the families involved.

Janessa Xylene Macaraig Communications and Advocacy Associate
Janessa Xylene Macaraig Communications and Advocacy Associate

Janessa Xylene Macaraig | Communications and Advocacy Associate

Janessa Xylene Macaraig is a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Development Communication from Batangas State University – The National Engineering University, where she earned the distinction of Cum Laude.

Throughout her academic journey, she has been an active student leader, sharpening her skills in leadership, public speaking, and strategic communication. Her involvement in organizing and spearheading impactful initiatives reflects her strong commitment to driving positive change within communities.

Janessa currently serves as the Sangguniang Kabataan Secretary in her barangay, where she plays a key role in community engagement, youth empowerment, and stakeholder communications. This position has further strengthened her capabilities in local governance and grassroots mobilization.

She also completed her internship as a Communications and Advocacy Intern at the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation (HLAF). This experience deepened her understanding of strategic communication and social advocacy, equipping her with the tools to support human rights initiatives.

Janessa is passionate about using the power of communication to inspire, inform, and create meaningful impact—whether through community work, advocacy, or development programs.

Jonathan Bantayan | Community Development Officer

Jonathan Agustin Batayan is a Bachelor of Science in Social Work graduate at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela (PLV), where he has been a consistent Dean’s Lister and active student leader. He currently serves as the Treasurer of the PLV–Junior Social Workers Association of the Philippines (2023–2024) and has experience as a community organizer in Sitio Cabatuan, Valenzuela City, and as a tutor under the DSWD Tara Basa! Program.

Jonathan has attended numerous seminars and workshops on child protection, gender and development, community extension, parole and probation social work, and sustainable livelihoods, reflecting his commitment to inclusive and rights-based social services. His academic achievements include graduating with honors in both junior and senior high school and earning recognition in creative writing and essay competitions.

Passionate about leadership, community development, and advocacy, Jonathan continues to hone his skills in critical thinking, social welfare practice, and communication. He envisions himself contributing to the advancement of social work in the Philippines, with a strong focus on safeguarding vulnerable groups and empowering communities.

Carmelita Torrefiel | Senior Community Organizer

Carmelita B. Torrefiel is the Senior Community Organizer for the Center for Restorative Action of the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation, Inc. (HLAF), where she has also served as a Community Organizer and Training Facilitator since 2011. With over two decades of experience in community work, child protection, and restorative justice, she has dedicated her career to advancing the rights and welfare of children and women.

She previously served as the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) Focal Person and Violence Against Women and their Children (VAWC) Desk Officer in Barangay Bagbag, Quezon City, as well as a Project Officer at SAKLAW Foundation, Inc., and a Finance and Documentation Officer at Pax Christi Pastoral Center in Oriental Mindoro. Her extensive experience in grassroots and program management has strengthened local governance mechanisms, including Barangay Councils for the Protection of Children, and anti-VAWC initiatives.

Ms. Torrefiel has been invited as a resource speaker and facilitator by provincial governments, NGOs, academic institutions, and community organizations across the country, particularly on child protection laws, restorative justice, community organizing, and gender-based violence prevention. Her dedication has earned her multiple awards and citations, including the Service Merit Award (Gawad Lasalyano) from De La Salle University’s Center for Social Concern and Action (COSCA) in 2023.

She holds a BS Psychology degree from Arellano University under the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) and has pursued numerous professional trainings in leadership, social work, and community development.
Passionate about community organizing, public speaking, and advocacy, Carmelita continues to serve as a strong voice for restorative justice and the protection of vulnerable sectors in society.

Carmela Reyes | Program Officer

Carmela serves as Program Officer at the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation, Inc. – Center for Restorative Action Program, where she provides technical assistance and develops policy recommendations for psychosocial programs benefiting vulnerable communities.

She has extensive experience in social work practice through her internships at the Quezon City Social Services Development Department, where she worked with children in conflict with the law, as well as with persons with disabilities in community organizing and capacity-building initiatives.

Juanito Vinluan Jr. | Program Officer

Juanito S. Vinluan Jr. is a licensed social worker and Program Officer for the Jail Decongestion Program of the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation, Inc. (HLAF). He earned his Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (2003) and became a registered social worker in 2005. He later pursued law studies at the Philippine College of Criminology – Manila Law College, where he attained his Juris Doctor degree in 2012.

With more than a decade of experience in social work, paralegal assistance, and program management, Juanito has contributed to HLAF’s initiatives such as the Focused Reintegration of Ex-Detainees (FRED) Program and Jail Decongestion (JD) Program, the implementation of the Detainees’ Notebook, and the development of paralegal handbooks in partnership with various institutions. He has also served as a co-facilitator and mentor for law internship and clinical legal education programs in partnership with Ateneo, San Beda, UST, and other law schools nationwide.

Before his work in HLAF, he served as a Medical Social Welfare Officer at East Avenue Medical Center for six years, and gained private sector experience with UNILAB and other pharmaceutical companies.

Married and a father of four, Juanito balances his professional role with his commitment to family life, faith, and service. His career reflects his dedication to social justice, access to legal aid, and the welfare of persons deprived of liberty.

Rubelin Rivera | Finance and Administrative Assistant

Rubelin L. Rivera is a young professional with a background in Business Administration, majoring in Marketing at the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology. With experience as a cashier, human resources assistant, and office clerk in both government and private institutions, she has developed strong skills in communication, adaptability, and time management.

She has served as a Logistics/Office Clerk at GreatHope General Services Inc., and continues to build her career in administrative and organizational support while aspiring to further expand her knowledge and professional growth.

Sharmaine Jintalan | Finance, Administrative, and Personnel Officer

Sharmaine P. Jintalan is a dedicated and detail-oriented professional with extensive experience in finance, administration, inventory management, and IT support. She holds a degree in Information Technology from Speed Computer College, where she was a consistent Dean’s Lister, and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy to further enhance her expertise in the field.

With a solid background in accounting, warehouse coordination, and office management, Sharmaine has successfully contributed to the operational and financial efficiency of various organizations, including the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation and HMR Trading Haus Philippines. She is proficient in QuickBooks, Microsoft Office Suite, and various inventory and documentation systems.

Her experience spans financial reporting, payroll processing, inventory control, and technical support, reflecting her versatility and reliability in both office and field settings. Sharmaine also holds certifications in Computer Hardware Servicing (NCII) and has completed numerous workshops in accounting, taxation, and BIR compliance. Committed to continuous learning and professional growth, Sharmaine brings a strong work ethic, accuracy, and a proactive mindset to every role she takes on.

Ma. Cristina Belardo | Legal and Policy Director

Ma. Cristina S. Belardo is a dedicated lawyer with a strong background in human rights, litigation, legal policy, and academia. She assists in the development and implementation of strategic plans, provides leadership and support to staff, and ensures alignment with the organization’s mission. In this capacity, she develops and implements comprehensive legal policies, conducts research and advocacy, and engages in participatory governance for policy development.

She actively participates in Technical Working Groups, contributing to policy development and analysis on issues concerning Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), Persons Released on Recognizance (PRLs), Children-at-Risk, and Children in Conflict with the Law. She also serves as a lecturer for paralegal training, focusing on laws affecting PDLs, women, and children.

In academia, Atty. Belardo is a part-time lecturer at Forbes College, teaching Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, and Evidence. She develops and updates course syllabi and learning materials in alignment with academic standards, contributing to the formation of future criminology and law professionals.

Her corporate legal experience includes serving as Assistant Corporate Secretary for Forbes College, Inc. and Forbes Academy, Inc., where she ensures compliance with SEC requirements, manages corporate records, and prepares legal documents. She also held the position of Compliance Officer, where she developed institutional policies, investigated compliance complaints, mediated disputes, and supported accreditation reviews to uphold ethical and legal standards.

Melvin Nunez | Strategic Social Behavior Change Communications and Advocacy Officer

Melvin leads the Strategic Communications and Social Behavior Change team of HLAF.

Melvin is trained and has expertise in Social Behavioral Change Communication, Development Communication, Journalism, Community Organizing, Community Development, Storytelling, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Networking.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Development Communication from Batangas State University and is currently pursuing his Master of Arts in Communication at the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (on-going thesis).

He has been involved in international and local human rights certifications from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime & Dangerous Drugs Board, Philippine Press Institute, Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication, UNESCO Jakarta, the Embassy of Netherlands, Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ateneo de Manila University, University of the Philippines, and the Commission on Human Rights.

He was a consultant to various local government and non-governmental organizations, including Caritas Manila, Plan International, the Local Council for the Protection of Children Consortium, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Commission on Human Rights, the Coalition Against the Death Penalty, Batangas State University, and the Philippine Press Institute, among others.

As the Social Behavioral Change Communication and Advocacy Officer, Melvin has played a crucial role in crafting impactful communication strategies that inspire positive change and amplify advocacy efforts. His work involves designing and implementing communication campaigns that promote driving social behavioral transformation.