Senatorial candidate Camille Villar is calling for the expansion of daycare centers across the country to provide working parents with accessible and affordable childcare while ensuring young children receive early education and developmental support. Recognizing the increasing challenges faced by Filipino families, Villar is urging stronger government investment in early childhood care and development (ECCD) as a crucial step in supporting both parents and children.

Expanding Access to Childcare

Villar highlights the pressing need to address the shortage of daycare centers, particularly in rural and low-income communities where childcare options remain limited. Many families rely on informal arrangements or are forced to sacrifice work opportunities due to the lack of affordable childcare. She is encouraging local governments to establish and upgrade daycare facilities, ensuring they meet safety and educational standards.

“Daycare centers do more than provide childcare—they play a vital role in a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth,” Villar explained. “Studies show that early education leads to better academic performance, higher earning potential, and stronger overall development in later years.”

She also stresses the importance of improving training and compensation for daycare workers to ensure children receive high-quality care and education.

Supporting Working Parents and Women in the Workforce

Beyond childcare, Villar underscores the economic impact of expanding daycare services, particularly for working mothers who often struggle to balance employment and family responsibilities. She believes that increasing daycare availability will allow more women to remain in the workforce, strengthening household incomes and contributing to economic growth.

“Many women leave their jobs or reduce their working hours because they have no childcare options,” Villar noted. “By expanding daycare services, we help parents—especially mothers—continue their careers, build businesses, and contribute to the economy without compromising their children’s well-being.”

She is urging public-private partnerships to establish daycare centers within workplaces and communities, making it easier for parents to manage both work and childcare. Additionally, she supports government incentives for businesses that provide childcare services for employees.

A Commitment to Filipino Families

As part of her platform, Villar is prioritising policies that strengthen family support systems. She envisions a future where every child has access to quality early education and every parent has the resources needed to provide for their families without worry.

“Our children deserve the best possible start in life, and parents deserve the support to provide it,” Villar concluded. “By making daycare centers more accessible and affordable, we are investing in a stronger, more inclusive, and more prosperous future for the Philippines.”