Filipina actress and television host, Anne Curtis was recently appointed UNICEF Celebrity Advocate for Children joining UNICEF National Ambassador Gary Valenciano and UNICEF Special Advocate for Children Daphne Paez in UNICEF Philippines.

Anne Curtis/Video Screen Shot
Anne Curtis/Video Screen Shot

One of the first things the “Dyesebel” star did as advocate was to visit parts of Leyte that were destroyed by Typhoon Yolanda in late 2013 and take time to spend with the children and the families affected.

“I am honored to join UNICEF on this very fulfilling and meaningful trip. I am deeply touched by how children and families have coped and are building back their lives. Clearly, significant progress have been achieved. Talking to children and their families, and being able to bring smiles to their faces is something I will remember for the rest of my life,” said Anne Curtis.

During the two day visit, Anne saw UNICEF supported emergency response while visiting a maternal health care ward in the regional hospital, an immunization site, a child friendly space at a temporary housing site, educational facilities such as day care centres and elementary schools, equipped with water, sanitation and hygiene facilities. In every site she visited, Anne took her time to talk with children and families.

As a UNICEF Celebrity Advocate for Children, Anne will focus on promoting Early Childhood Care & Development. She will also help in mobilizing support and resources for the most vulnerable children and families, those living in abject poverty, are affected by violence, abuse, exploitation, and particularly in emergency and conflict situations.

UNICEF Philippines has more than 60 people working to promote and protect the rights of children. They aim to provide the best quality of life for every Filipino child through programs that help them survive and flourish including education, health and nutrition, disaster risk reduction and emergencies, HIV and AIDS prevention, child protection, communication, and local policy and institutional development.