A new milestone in child protection was achieved with the inauguration of the Kalipay Room at the Bacolod City Hall of Justice, a dedicated safe space designed to provide comfort, dignity, and protection for children navigating the justice system.
The initiative is a project of the Kalipay Negrense Foundation, Inc., in partnership with the Spouses of Heads of Missions – Manila (SHOM), and in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Bacolod Central, Bacolod City Justice Zone, Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Negros Occidental Chapter, and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
The inauguration was attended by SHOM representatives Michelle Hejcová of the Czech Republic, Paul McIntosh of New Zealand, John Hanx of Slovenia, Eric Tracz of Hungary, Oleksandr Pisteiko of Ukraine, and Dusan Ropret of Slovenia, a press release from Kalipay said.
Also present were Rotary International District 3850 Governor Pip Asencion, Rotary Club of Bacolod Central Presidents Joselito Sion and Rolem Basiya, members of the judiciary, and local government officials.
Executive Judge Therese Bolunia commended the project, recognizing its contribution to a more child-sensitive justice system. Chief City Prosecutor Maria Theresa Ditching highlighted the power of collaboration among different organizations in making the project possible.
Representing Kalipay Founder and President Anna Balcells, Kalipay Executive Director Meliton Enderes Sillador Jr. expressed his deep gratitude to all the partners and stakeholders who helped bring the project to life.
“The Kalipay Room stands as a testament to what can be achieved when compassion and cooperation come together. It is not just a room, it is a safe haven where children can feel secure, respected, and valued while facing some of life’s most difficult moments,” Sillador said.
The Kalipay Room forms part of Kalipay Negrense Foundation’s continuing advocacy to rescue, rehabilitate, and reintegrate disadvantaged children, providing them with spaces that embody love, safety, and hope.*