THE National Committee on the Filipino Family (NCFF) and its member agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), will lead this year’s observance of the International Day of Families 2008 on May 15.
The celebration aims to reflect on the importance of families as basic unit of society around the world.
Theme
The theme for this year’s activity is “Fathers and Families: Responsibilities and Challenges,” which is anchored on the belief that fathers are essential to the family life, and that emerging challenges facing them and their families should not change this.
The International Day of Families provides an opportunity to promote awareness on the issues relating to families as well as an opportunity to demonstrate support on family issues.
For greater impact, the DSWD is suggesting for the conduct of the activities in time for the celebration.
Activities
Government agencies, nongovernment organizations, educational institutions, religious groups and individuals are advised to hold family and community forum and workshops to explore issues and offer options for strengthening families or provide information on family support services, such as counseling, financial assistance and advisory.
They may also conduct special events in education settings, such as parents/teachers gatherings.
The giving of special fare rates or free tickets for families in public transportation and other incentives gives additional emphasis to the day and facilitates the involvement of families.
Freebies
They may also get free entrance to museums, exhibitions and concerts.
Groups may also hold a parade for fathers.
Others may also hold a short program to be highlighted by testimonies from a widower, a solo parent or single father, husband of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) and advocate of violence against women with focus group discussions with selected participants.
Role
The celebration also provides an opportunity to increase knowledge of the economic, cultural, social and demographic processes affecting families.
Families play a crucial and important role in shaping the society.
It is the main instrument of social integration through its functions and socialization and the main source of love, security and support, the DSWD 7 said in a press release.
