The 17-year-old boy, known as Daven, and his two younger siblings have allegedly been abandoned by their mother since March of this year. However, Daven remains determined to take back his 5-year-old sister and 1-year-old brother from the children’s center once he is able to find a job and establish stability in his life.
Recently, Daven agreed to have his siblings placed in the Hope of Mandaue Enhanced (HOME) Children’s Center in Sitio Dungguan. On Tuesday, May 16, the 5-year-old sister and 1-year-old brother were brought to the center, as confirmed by City Councilor Jennifer Del Mar.
Daven’s father is currently serving time in jail for involvement in illegal drugs, leaving the three siblings without parental support. In order to ensure his safety and well-being, Edilberto Osabel, a social welfare personnel from Barangay Tabok, stated that Daven would be relocated to a different place where he could be properly cared for.
Councilor Del Mar, a friend of the Barangay Tabok officials, informed Daven that once he turns 18 years old in November, Mayor Jonas Cortes has promised him a job opportunity within the city through the City Social Welfare and Services (CSWS). Additionally, the city would provide financial assistance to support his education in the Alternative Learning System, with Mayor Cortes offering help for any additional needs during his studies.
Del Mar mentioned that they are not yet aware of Daven’s decision regarding his educational path, as he has received scholarship offers and financial assistance from individuals. The city government expressed gratitude for these offers, but Daven has not yet disclosed his final decision.
Meanwhile, Daven continues to visit his siblings at the children’s center regularly. Del Mar explained that his desire is to gradually adapt to the separation, expressing his preference to fix his emotions before their separation occurs.
In a previous interview, Daven made a promise to reclaim his siblings once he completes his studies and secures a stable job. He reiterated this commitment during his recent visit to the Home Children’s Center.
Seeking assistance, Daven approached officials from Barangay Tabok on Friday, May 12. They promptly coordinated with City Councilor Jennifer Del Mar and the CSWS to address the situation.