World Vision highlights the need to ensure child protection in Marawi communities
World Vision, thru its Childhood Rescue Project, recently reminded parents, teachers, and government representatives to always uphold the rights and protection of children in their communities.
Childhood Rescue is World Vision’s advocacy project promoting children’s rights and protection in the cities of Marawi and Cotabato, south of the Philippines.
“Our training on child protection is merely a reminder to our community partners to ensure that children’s rights and protection are upheld,” says Erlinda Alejaga, World Vision Child Protection Specialist.
The activity discussed the four basic rights of the children, different kinds of abuses, and mechanisms to report child abuse.
One of the participants, a mother, shares, “Children are still young and need proper care and nurturing. We should do these to them so that when we get old, these children will take care of us in return.”
Participants were glad to have learned and been reminded of these things.
Also present during the training were Masbud Gaima II, OIC for Marawi Interior Local Government Office, barangay officials, the Barangay Safety Officers, and youth leaders.
Child protection and its broader welfare approaches are stated in the country’s Republic Act 7610 known as the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act. RA7610 provides the legal basis to protect children from abuse including neglect, exploitation, and discrimination that affects a child’s development.
The Philippines is also a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child that guarantees the fundamental rights and freedoms of all children.
As a child-focused organization, World Vision has been at the forefront in ensuring that communities are well-equipped in responding to child abuses by conducting training among caregivers, parents, school and government officials, and strengthening the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC).
Together we can protect vulnerable children
Our focus is on helping the most vulnerable children overcome poverty and experience fullness of life. We help children of all backgrounds, even in the most dangerous places, inspired by our Christian faith. Together we can protect children today, and empower them for tomorrow.
