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Longitudinal Cohort Study on the Filipino Child (LCSFC)

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In 2015, the United Nations introduced the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to tackle big issues like poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability. In the Philippines, this aligns with a unique opportunity called the "youth bulge," where a large number of young people can drive economic growth if they're healthy and educated.

To support this, the UNFPA, UNICEF, and the Philippine government started a study to see how SDG programs help kids grow from age 10 in 2016 to age 24 in 2030.

Reports from the study

Cover of The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the SDG Youth Agenda

Longitudinal Cohort Study on the Filipino Child: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the SDG Youth Agenda


This report evaluates the progress of the Philippines in achieving youth-relevant targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through LCSFC. The LCSFC tracks a nationally representative cohort of Filipino children from age 10 in 2016 to age 24 in 2030, assessing the impact of the SDGs on their transition from childhood to young adulthood.

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Cover of Longitudinal  Cohort Study on the Filipino Child. Waves 4A, 5 and 5A Final Report

Longitudinal Cohort Study on the Filipino Child: Waves 4A, 5 and 5A Final Report


The study’s data from Waves 4A and 5, covering early to later stages of the pandemic, provided insights into the cohort’s experiences during intense lockdowns and the transition to the “new normal.” Key findings included increased difficulty in meeting expenses, decreased food security, and challenges with remote learning. Some indicators showed improvement in the latter phase of the pandemic, suggesting adaptation and positive responses to government programs.

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Cover of . Longitudinal Cohort Study on the Filipino Child. Wave 4 Final Report.

Longitudinal Cohort Study on the Filipino Child: Wave 4 Final Report


The fourth survey round of the LCSFC took place during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines. Key findings include increased reports of sickness, disability, work, alcohol consumption, and chatting with strangers, alongside higher internet and cellphone use. While physical violence by friends and adults has decreased, violence by parents and hunger remain persistent issues. 

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