ARNEC gathered national and local partners this week for a knowledge exchange aimed at strengthening early childhood programs under the MORECare4YoungChildren Project supported by the UBS Optimus Foundation. Held from 1–3 December 2025, the session brought together the ECCD Council of the Philippines and the pilot municipalities of Cainta, Rizal, and Batan, Aklan to reflect on a full year of implementing the Infants and Toddlers Early Development (ITED) Program.  

Participants reviewed what has worked on the ground and identified areas that could boost the program’s rollout to more local government units across the country. Child Development Teachers and Workers shared firsthand experiences facilitating ITED sessions with parents and caregivers, including males, in diverse communities, while local leaders and parents offered candid feedback on the program’s impact.

Stories from both urban and rural settings painted a consistent picture: parents are gaining confidence, children are becoming more engaged, and communities are seeing the value of investing early in a child’s development. Local officials reaffirmed their support, noting ITED’s role in strengthening families and improving the wellbeing of children below age three.

For ARNEC and its partners, the exchange marked more than a technical review—it signaled growing momentum for a program that empowers caregivers and helps shape a stronger foundation for young children. As the ITED model prepares to expand, the shared commitment of national and local actors continues to drive a vision where every Filipino child receives the responsive, nurturing care they deserve.