Fun time for kids in evacuation centers

Seventy-one children, whose families were displaced by the Marawi City crisis, have undergone a series of psychosocial exercises organized by a United States alumni association and supported by the Lanao del Sur Provincial Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the military.

According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command (AFPWestMinCom), the series of activities, which aimed to entertain and empower the children aging 3 to 12 years old, was held at the Lanao del Sur Provincial Social Hall at 10 a.m. Monday in Marawi City.

A combination of fun games, art work, socialization, and entertainment was conducted to address the stress experienced by the children affected by the conflict in the city.

The beneficiaries are temporarily being sheltered at the Lanao del Sur Capitol Evacuation Center after the Maute terror group started attacking the city last May.

Combined personnel of the Joint Task Groups Ranao and Tabang were among those who mingled and played with the children.

"Despite the language gap, beneficiaries were noticed genuinely laughing and enjoying the series of activities and the interactions," said Colonel Tom Sedano of the Joint Task Group Tabang.

"Most of the instructions were done through sign language so that the kids will be able to understand the mechanics of the activity."

"The ultimate goal is for them to enjoy and to have fun," Sedano added.

A seven-year-old boy, when asked how he felt about the activity, said: "Masaya po ako, gusto ko po maglaro sa mga kuya ko (I’m happy, I like it when I play with my elder brothers). He was referring to the soldiers who participated in the activity.