Extensive Writing on Extensive Experience for Children’s Future

When we were young, our parents taught us to read and especially to write. But we had no idea that writing was more than just writing. It has the power to transform someone’s life and express who we are as individuals. It can also help us elucidate and improve our thoughts for others and ourselves. Writing is also like children. It takes intense training and guidance to make it smoother and more polished when the day comes.
This article is based on the information gleaned from Mr. Darell Bautista’s experience and knowledge about the importance of writing in empowering children and helping adults to be educated on children’s rights.
Firstly, Mr. Darell emphasizes that a child is a human being. That is the first thing people should keep in mind. Since they are human, they always belong in society, and they have the right to enjoy and experience human rights, which only accentuate or emphasize the rights that belong to children, such as the right to be born and the right to have a name. They also must have health, strength, clothing, housing, and education. They also have the right to be protected by the government and to enjoy the laws that can protect them. They also have the right to play, which is contained in the rights of the child. It also appears that these are the rights that adults still have, but, of course, they are also important, especially for children. It’s also important for children to know that they are respected and that they have dignity, so as they grow older, they know how to respect other people’s rights. Mr. Darell also mentioned that there are many confusions and misunderstandings when a person gets older since there are things that are not shown when he or she is young that are the appropriate things. So, as they get older, they get more confused about why they don’t seem to be respected, why they don’t seem to have dignity because they weren’t emphasized, and they didn’t grow up in an environment where children are treated well. It’s heartbreaking to think that many young people are still being subjected to this. It is also vital that we understand what we enable children to experience and what acknowledged rights that children should have. Additionally, when the children have experienced how to treat them correctly, it will be embedded in them or imprinted in their minds that this is how they should treat other people. They will also realize that these are the values they should possess. That is why the environment that a child grows up in has great value and influence when they are growing up. That’s why this is where the importance of writing comes in.
Mr. Darell, on the other hand, stated that writing is essential to him as a teacher. According to him, the most basic reason why it is important is that people cannot always listen. There are also times when they don’t always have time to talk to other people either. It only means that if a person is alone and has a problem, writing can be their companion and protection. Furthermore, due to the continuous advancement of technology, there are times when the information that is used is readily accessible on social media.

However, there are still people who have not reached this point, but because there are publications, such as modules, research papers, newspapers, and so on, it may also be distributed to many people, particularly those who do not have much access to social media.
Writing helps children to freely express their feelings as well as the problems they face. It’s necessary to let children express their experiences because there is a thought process involved. On the other hand, writing also helps children freely express their feelings as well as the problems they face. It’s necessary to let children express their experiences because there is a thought process involved. The process involved in writing is also something that can help them inculcate it. Some children are reported to be involved in crime because they do not read enough to assist in guiding them in the proper direction.
That is why good reading and writing can help children discover new things that will help them become the best versions of themselves. People should write a lot if they want to have a lot to read. This should help children avoid going down the incorrect path. Anything should be written because it is a stimulus that will be placed in our minds when we read something wonderful. People cannot read anything if there is nothing written. Mr. Darell also highlighted that propaganda, fake news, propaganda, and defamatory slander can also be inserted here. Instead of focusing on the negative repercussions of writing, why not focus on the beneficial ones? He said that we should just write positive things. Let’s start with learning. We should write lessons that people can read because propagandists and bad people are well aware of the power of writing. Aside from that, children are curious. They will read when they can read something. So, it is necessary to maximize the exploratory stage of children. Provide them with reading resources. So, people should write because the parents, if they care about the children, will also read that stuff for the benefit of their children. So, it is necessary to produce readings. Aside from that, children are curious. They will read when they can read something. So, it is necessary to maximize the exploratory stage of children. Give them reading materials. So, let’s write because the parents, if they care about the children, will be read to and they will read for the good of the children. So, it is necessary to produce readings.
There are also things we can do to encourage individuals to get back into the habit of writing. Because, as we all know, writing is no longer paid much attention to due to the advent of several technologies and means of disseminating information. The first thing to do is to find a role model because we cannot expect everyone to be able to write. We should first develop ourselves and other people’s interest in writing; we should write more and write a lot. After that, when other people see that they express their experiences beautifully through films and short videos, they may think that they can relate. Only then can we encourage them to relate to that person. There need to be a few people who are confident enough to share their lives and inspire them on a personal level. There need to be a few people who are confident enough to share their lives and inspire them on a personal level. Then we ask for their stories. There need to be a few people who are confident enough to share their lives and inspire them on a personal level. Then we ask for their stories. The cause of the ripple effect people can be enticed by a tiny drop. Because we can’t make it a project that all participants will write Because we will also come up with simple projects like writing workshops and small projects to get them to the point where they can write again. Book reading workshops, let’s invite those who have already written. We just need to rekindle people’s interests in writing and reading before we expect them to write for other people. Concerning the most efficient social media platform for sharing information on children’s rights, he stated that people should always remember that whichever platform it is, it always comes from a script, something written. It is the result of a plan. So, regardless of where they release things, as long as they have strong content and a solid script, it will be a hit. Script writing is vital because it is adaptable, and social media may help spread knowledge.
The difficulties we would encounter on that platform if we were to encourage that type of advocacy in terms of raising knowledge about children’s rights is that there is already a lot of content. The kind where you have to fight with streaming and virality and be extremely fascinating. So, competition is the most serious issue because it is a destroyer. That constancy can also be a disadvantage because it is difficult to maintain.
People should realize that they should imagine the world without writing. It’s difficult to get to, but many of us need to be made aware of it. They must learn to write out their needs. This simply demonstrates the significance of writing. First of all, no one would know them if they couldn’t write and read their names. Sometimes people are offended when they are being corrected, but kids are different. Kids are more welcoming to people who teach them. So, we have to believe that the children will listen. Because today’s teachers are also part of the problem, they tend to think that children are difficult to teach. So, what will happen is that the children will become more stubborn. They will be reprimanded more. Because that’s what they can feel deep inside. They will feel that they are dumb. That’s why they don’t like it, but we should always remember that we should recognize them and that they are willing to learn. It is necessary every time we have a child to talk to or we will make a video lesson. We should always keep in mind that the person reading or watching this or who will listen to us is willing to learn. And that’s the mindset we need, especially for children. That’s why children reciprocate respect. We should always remember that we should be interested first in them so that they will also be interested in themselves and to make them interested in telling their stories. If we want to teach someone or something, we must first believe that they want to know, they want to learn that, and they will reciprocate that.
Furthermore, Mr. Darell advised that when interviewing children who have lost their way, you ask them what they are reading. Inquire about what they read, if they had the opportunity to write and if someone listened to them. Perhaps some of them did not have an opportunity to study, and perhaps others did not listen to them. So, when they have grievances and are upset and no one listens to them, they tend to do something wrong since no one can guide them.
But through the help of writing, we can bring them to other dimensions where they can freely live their thoughts and learn knowledge that they should know as they grow up.

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.