In the Philippines, thousands of children grow up separated from one of their parents, who has gone abroad to work in order to support their family. Behind these financial sacrifices often lie invisible wounds: loneliness, anxiety, feelings of abandonment, and difficulty expressing emotions.
The project “Absence hurts, listening repairs” aimed to support a psychosocial support program for the children of Filipino migrant workers, known as “Overseas Filipino Workers.” 

Absence hurts… but listening can heal

The sessions are specially designed as interactive workshops to provide children with a safe space where they can finally put into words what they are going through.

- ANAK Workshop: expressing emotions and understanding family separation.
- ALAB Workshop: personal development, values, and life plans.
- KAISA Workshop: support and training for guardians.

“Over several days, the children were invited to share their emotions, understand their family situation, and regain their self-confidence. The workshops helped them discover their strengths, envision their future, and build positive reference points.” Sr. Maria Socorro

At the same time, sessions were also organized for the mentors who work with them on a daily basis, with the aim of improving their listening and support skills.

Particularly encouraging results 

“Many children opened up for the first time about struggles they had been carrying alone for a long time. Some found the courage to bring up topics they had never dared to discuss with their families. Others expressed deep relief after discovering they weren’t alone in facing these challenges.” Sr. Maria Socorro

- 80–90% of participants were able to openly express their difficulties.
- 75–85% felt less isolated.
- 60–70% developed a greater awareness of their mental health needs.
- 70–80% adopted more positive coping strategies.

Among the testimonials collected, one of the most striking is that of a young man who had gone through a serious personal crisis that culminated in a suicide attempt. Thanks to the support he received during the program and the strength of the group, he was able to share his story for the first time and return to a path of hope.

Number of beneficiaries:

- 63 children in Zamboanga City
- 60 children at Concordia College in Manila
- 104 children at St. Louise de Marillac School in Miag-ao.

Three more batches to come 

More than 220 young people have already found a listening ear, a space to heal, and new reasons for hope. 

School schedules, administrative delays, and disruptions caused by typhoons have limited the number of sessions held. Of the eight groups originally planned, five have been supported to date. The remaining three sessions are scheduled to take place before the end of 2026.

“Thank you for helping to transform absence into presence, loneliness into support, and suffering into resilience.” Sr. Maria Socorro