Likhaan at 28: Fostering Sustainability

Likhaan was established on September 15, 1995 by a group of women activists, community women leaders, and health professionals to address the lack of access to reproductive health (RH) information and services for women in the communities of Malabon and Pasay. Among Likhaan’s early programs was the implementation of a community-based health program (CBHP) centered on women, which included a women’s clinic, community education and organizing, and the training of community health workers in both communities, as well as advocacy work for women’s health and RH in the form of campaigns and alliance work.

By 2023, Likhaan had grown to establish 9 clinics in Manila, Navotas, Pasay, Quezon City, Bulacan, Cavite and Eastern Samar, providing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services; leading an energetic team of community organizers and mobilizers that organize and educate women and young people on SRH; and spearheading advocacy work for SRHR policies and programs at the local and national levels. The 74 dedicated staff members make sure that these three core programs are implemented.

(Likhaan family at the “Tree of Life” at the National Museum of National History)

On the occasion of Likhaan's 28th anniversary last September 16, 2023, the staff took time off from work and celebrated the day with a tour at the National Museum of National History, followed by lunch and a short program at the Patio de Conchita in Intramuros. Likhaan has come a long way in promoting women’s SRHR and the celebration was an opportune time to look back while moving forward.

Mark and Ronith admiring the displayed preserved leaves.

“(Sa loob ng 28 taon) Nasa puso pa rin natin ang serbisyo pangkalusugan para sa kababaihan at para sa mga hindi inaabutan ng serbisyong abot-kaya.”, as Dr. Sylvia “Guy” Estrada-Claudio, co-founder and Chair of the Board, said in her welcome message.

As Likhaan continues its journey, Dr. Junice Melgar, co-founder and Executive Director mentioned that sustainability is one of the challenges that Likhaan has to face so we can continue to do our work. To address this, Likhaan shall actively fundraise, and put together a team to lead the fund- raising effort.

“Trabaho natin lahat ang pagpa-fundraise.” Dr. Junice said, encouraging all staff to work together to in order to generate funds.

“Ang Likhaan ay dreamer at builder,” said Jun Melgar, community organizing manager, recalling how Likhaan started. “Bilang builder, ‘wag tayong managinip lang, kailangan talaga natin ng isang income stream na manggagaling sa individual donations.”

Chona, one of Likhaan dedicated clinicians received her 28 years of service award.

To recognize and appreciate the “builders” of Likhaan, each staff received a gift and certificate in recognition of their years of services in Likhaan.

As part of Likhaan ritual, new staff showing their talent in dancing.

Without losing sight of the challenges ahead, Likhaan spent the afternoon with singing and dancing, laughing, enjoying, and appreciating each other.

Staff joyfully sang and danced along to karaoke.

A long standing custom in Likhaan is enjoying a meal together.

Likhaan family *insert Eastern Samar staff*

Happy 28th Anniversary, Likhaan! Padayon!