THE COMMUNITY EXTENSION SERVICES PROGRAM (CESP)

Based in San Fernando, La Union, Philippines, the CESP was established in May 1996 to establish and organize multi-level formations and alliances for returned migrant workers and their families, aimed at engaging the La Union local government, from the barangay until the provincial and regional levels, into recognizing its migrant workers as a distinct sector. The CESP establishes Structures of Care (SOCs) in La Union. Through direct community organizing, and building partnerships with existing government and non-government organizations, the CESP strengthens these SOCs to enable communities to resist human trafficking, illegal recruitment, and other adverse effects of migration at its roots.

Kanlungan helped form Bannuar Ti La Union (Heroes of La Union), a province-wide federation of OFWs, returnees and their families.  Kanlungan and Bannuar Ti La Union continue to challenge the Local Government Units (LGUs) in La Union to craft and implement policies and programs for OFWs and their families.  Bannuar ti La Union is now a partner of Kanlungan in setting-up OFW Action Centers in their respective areas to respond to the needs of the sector.