Thesis (Master in Management) University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2024

Talikala, Inc., a non-governmental organization, was brought to life since 1987 to break the chains of the exploitative conditions faced by women and children in prostitution, and to form a community where these marginalized groups are welcomed and supported, highlighting a perceived journey from bondage to bonding. This strategic plan paper binds stories and strategies as it outlines a comprehensive roadmap for the organization to address the growing demands and the ever-changing needs of its constituents and stakeholders in the next five years---2024-2028. Consultation with relevant actors is deemed important in this paper as this fills in the gap after more than two decades of operations without a guidance of a strategic plan. The plan primarily adopts a strategic management and a gender framework to assess the organization and its programs vis-a –vis its principles and mandate towards the betterment of the situation of women in abuse and exploitation. It starts with reviewing the general performance of the organization, following the external and internal audits, where identified, overarching issues and problems were discussed. These include revisiting the target group/s that currently need interventions the most, sustaining partnerships and resources, succession plan and data management, and lack of some skills in the organization to effectively deliver its objectives. The organization’s vision, mission, goal, and objectives were then redefined, with the active participation of key actors comprising the organization. The new strategic vision Talikala, Inc. is to have an inclusive and free society where prostituted and vulnerable women and girls participate actively and contribute meaningfully towards gender equity and development. To achieve this, Talikala has formulated its strategic goals and corresponding strategies, which are the partnership building and/or strengthening for resource generation, focusing more on policy advocacy and explorative awareness campaigns, and strengthening institutional capacities of Talikala itself and its self-help support groups. With all these, Talikala aims to improve the quality of life of those vulnerable and victims of prostitution, sex trafficking, and online sexual exploitation. This strategic plan also underscores the significance of monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) in gauging the result of interventions and needed improvement, while also ensuring that transparency and feedback mechanisms are installed to better improve program effectiveness and impact over time. Overall, this paper binds Talikala’s crucial stories, through available data and/or processed information, and corresponding strategies that align towards women’s empowerment and development. By utilizing existing and potential resources, partnership, and expertise with its strategic goals and initiatives, the organization aspire to become a safe haven for women and children vulnerable and victims of abusive and exploitative conditions.