Building the dreams of the Filipino youth

Rolando Cervantes had always wanted to be an engineer but his dream had to be put on hold. At the age of 14, he already started working at a convenience store during the day instead of attending school, and then babysat after work for extra cash. He also worked at a carinderia as a waiter, cashier and dishwasher to help his parents make ends meet.

This is a common scenario in Manila where not every child has the opportunity to go to school. As another school year just begun, many families are scrambling to ensure they can give their children proper education. From basic school supplies to uniforms, the needed finances to send just one child to school can be too costly already. Add on top of that their daily living expenses, the children’s right to education is easily neglected.