Protecting Children: A Safe Philippines for Every Child

 

The Philippines commemorates National Children’s Month every November with the intention of emphasizing, ‘Children’s Rights’. ‘Our’ children, dutifully deserve this recognition, enforces them to focus on the theme of the November, aimed at arousing empathy for protection of children: the theme for this year is *“Break the Prevalence, End The Violence: Protecting Children, Creating A Safe Philippines.”* 

Children in the Philippines endure different forms of violence in diverse settings, namely at home, school or through the Internet. Most researchers agree that the majority of abuse takes place within the family unit, which is supposed to be the safest environment for the child. This elicits an urgent response from all quarters-parents, teachers, community leaders and the state to intervene and avert the danger. It is equally pertinent to inform families and communities about the causes and consequences of violence and the preventive measures employed in order to stop it happening in the first place. 

To achieve a Safer Philippines, Children’s needs and safety have to come at the forefront. Parents must ensure a safe and secure atmosphere at home. Schools and communities must work together to create environments that make kids feel safe and protected. Children’s education programs that promote the awareness of rights and encourage children to voice their opinions when they perceive injustice would help in allowing children's voices to be heard. We invest in the bright future of our children and our nation as we do so.