September 16, 2005

Hon. Governor Vic P. Magsaysay
Provincial Capitol
Iba, Zambales
Philippines
Fax: 0063 47 811 7203

Dear Governor Magsaysay:

        On behalf of the Children In Conflict with the Law (CICL), we would like to bring to your attention the Online Petition to Save Philippine Children in Prison (Attachment 1) signed by more than 5,800 Filipinos, Filipino-Americans, OFW’s, and individuals concerned about the plight of  children that are currently in prison with adult offenders. We are also attaching a copy of our letter to the President..

       Various initiatives are currently under way to address this urgent issue that was brought to global attention by the recent CNN/ITN coverage aired this past August, in order to develop workable and sustainable solutions to protect children and restore trust in government.

        It has been brought to our attention that PREDA, a very reputable and well respected organization that serves CICL has submitted a request for the use of the buildings at San Nicolas, Castillejos, Zambales for conversion into a children's home, including a small piece of unused land reaching to the river at San Nicolas for use as organic farm to help feed the children.  

        We urge your good office to approve that these buildings, paid for by various donors including World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the U.S. Development funds of the Mt. Pinatubo Commission for a home and livelihood training, be turned over to PREDA, for the sake of the children.

        We are now appealing to the President, senators and congress people through a  global campaign to help the children be released from prisons to this new home-to-be.  We will greatly appreciate your support for this important project. When the CNN returns for a follow up report and GMA Channel 7 broadcasts their documentary on it, we hope that a thriving and growing home for children will already be operating, thanks to you and the provincial board.

                                                                                    Jocelyn H. Bruce, M.D.

                                                                                    Founding President & CEO, NANAY Inc

                                                                                    NANAY Philippines Committee

                                                                                     On Behalf of Global Filipinos

Contact Information 

Telephone 305-981-3232

FAX 305-981-3231

Postal address

659 N.E. 125 Street, North Miami, Florida 33161

Electronic mail:  joybruce@aol.com   elsabayani2003@yahoo.com