In the rural areas of the Philippines, street children, often referred to as street urchins, face numerous challenges as they navigate life without the stability of a supportive family or home. These children, who live and work on the streets, exhibit remarkable resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity. Many street children resort to begging for food and money to survive. They often scour through garbage dumps to find items they can sell or use. These activities expose them to health hazards and the harsh realities of poverty. To earn a meager income, street urchins take on various odd jobs such as washing cars, carrying goods at markets, or collecting recyclable materials. These tasks are often physically demanding and poorly paid.
Without a stable home, street children sleep in makeshift shelters, abandoned buildings, or open spaces. Their living conditions are precarious and unsafe, exposing them to the elements and potential abuse. Limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities leads to poor hygiene and health issues. Street children are vulnerable to malnutrition, infections, and diseases due to their harsh living environment.