Adolescent mothers shouldn't have to knock on multiple doors for support. They may need health care, education, protection, and financial assistance, yet these services often come from different offices. As a result, many young mothers are left unsure where to go and must repeat their stories each time they seek help.
To address these gaps, the Department of Health's National Nutrition Council passed a resolution in July calling on local government units across Metro Manila to establish an Integrated Information and Service Delivery Network (IISDN). This brings together public service providers, so adolescent mothers can access the support they need through a more seamless referral system.
“Health care is only one part of the support teen mothers need. They and their children also need proper nutrition, opportunities to continue their education, protection from abuse and exploitation, and access to social and psychosocial services that can help them build a stable future,” said Vivien Grace Martin, Save the Children Philippines Director of Sponsorships Program.
Save the Children supported the development of the resolution by sharing research that showed many young mothers were unaware of the services and support available to them. For example, many did not know they were eligible for free vitamins and food supplements during pregnancy.
As local governments begin localizing the resolution, the leading child's rights organization will continue supporting them in setting up adolescent-friendly services and referral pathways, while sharing lessons from initiatives such as the Teen Centers in the cities of Caloocan, Malabon, and Navotas.
Through the IISDN, when a young mother visits a health facility for a checkup, focal persons can identify her needs beyond healthcare, such as
- reenrollment support through the Schools Division Office;
- case management and counseling through the City Social Welfare and Development Office;
- medical, nutrition, and psychosocial support through local health offices;
- and legal assistance through the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children or Violence Against Women and Children Desk.
"No pregnant adolescents should have to navigate pregnancy and parenthood alone. By creating a system of care, we can help ensure that children receive timely information, clear referrals, and respectful, non-discriminatory support from service providers," Martin said.
Learn how we're helping children and adolescents make informed decisions for their futures. Visit www.savethechildren.org.ph.