MANILA – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is intensifying its efforts to support adolescent mothers, aiming to ensure their psychological and social well-being as they face the challenges of early parenthood. This initiative comes as teenage pregnancy continues to be a pressing issue across the nation.
Diane Gianan, a Project Development Officer from the DSWD’s Social Technology Bureau, highlighted the expansion of the Psychosocial Support and Other Interventions for Adolescent Mothers and their Families Project, known as ProtecTEEN. Launched in 2023 and further expanded in 2024, ProtecTEEN is designed to both prevent teenage pregnancies and assist young mothers in their journey.
ProtecTEEN stands out as the only program in the Philippines offering a full suite of services tailored for adolescent mothers and their families, aligning with the goals of Executive Order 141 to tackle the underlying causes of teenage pregnancy.
During a media forum at the DSWD central office in Quezon City, Gianan explained that the project not only supports young mothers aged 10 to 19 but also extends its benefits to their partners, parents, children, and other household members. The initiative promotes a holistic family approach, empowering all members to foster a supportive home environment conducive to responsible parenting.
Gianan emphasized the importance of breaking the cycle of intergenerational teenage pregnancy, noting that many clients have shared stories of family members who were also teen mothers. The DSWD aims to prevent these recurring patterns and reduce repeat pregnancies among adolescent mothers.
“While having children is a blessing, it should happen at the right time and for the right reasons,” Gianan stated, underscoring the program’s focus on timing and purpose in family planning.
Under ProtecTEEN, the DSWD offers a range of interventions including family healing sessions, case management, livelihood and educational support, capability-building activities, and referrals to other organizations. The program also works closely with the healthcare sector to ensure adolescent mothers have access to comprehensive reproductive health services.