Childhope Philippines has one of the recipients of the 2025 ASEAN Outstanding Social Welfare and Development Award (AOSWADA), a distinction granted by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to organizations that have demonstrated exceptional service in promoting social welfare and development across the region. The ASEAN Outstanding Awards (AOSWADA) was first launched in 2015 to acknowledge the contributions of non-governmental organizations (NGO’s), civil society organizations (CSO’s), and private sector institutions in advancing social welfare across Southeast Asia.
The announcement was made during the 12th ASEAN Ministerial Meetings, hosted by Myanmar from August 26 to 29, 2025 at the M-Gallery Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw. As part of the gathering, the 3rd AOSWADA Ceremony was held on August 27, bringing together representatives of award-winning institutions from eight ASEAN member states. While Myanmar from other countries joined the program online.
The event was led by Union Minister Dr. Soe Win, Chair of the AMMSWD, who opened the ceremony by underscoring the role of social welfare organizations in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable. He was joined by Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN U San Lwin, who delivered a message of support and appreciation.
This year, 16 organizations from ASEAN nations were honored. In the Philippines, Childhope’s nomination came through the Standards Bureau of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (SB-DSWD), which endorsed its strong track record in championing the rights and well being of children in street situations. Alongside Childhope, MKOKU, Brunei and several Myanmar Creative University- MyanmarCreative International College (MCU-MCI), were among the awardees.
For more than three (3) decades, Childhope has been at the forefront of efforts to provide marginalized children with access to education, healthcare, psychosocial assistance and life skills opportunities. It’s holistic approach to social development has not only addressed immediate needs but has also helped create pathways for lasting empowerment.
In response to the recognition, Childhope expressed gratitude to the SB-DSWD for the nomination and to ASEAN for the acknowledgement of its work. The award is both an honor and a challenge but affirms the mission and inspires to continue standing alongside children, families, and communities who deserve equal opportunities to live with dignity and hope.
By receiving the 2025 AOSWADA, Childhope Philippines reinforces its place among ASEAN’s leading advocates for social development- an enduring reminder that meaningful change for vulnerable groups is possible when service is guided by compassion, dedication, collective action.
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