Blog Post.1

 The 2024 National Children's Month in the Philippines comes with a mighty theme: "Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines." which seeks the necessity to address and eradicate such pervasive issues of violence against children. It calls upon the government, civil society, communities, and people to create a safe and nurturing environment for every Filipino child.

Violence against children is manifested in different forms, be it physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect and exploitation. These traumatic experiences not only affect the immediate well-being of children but also have long-term consequences on their mental health, educational attainment, and overall development. The 2024 celebration emphasizes breaking this cycle of violence so that children can grow up in a safe and supportive environment.

It calls for an approach like strengthening child protection laws, public awareness, and accessible support services for victims. It also requires active community participation in identifying and reporting abuse cases. Schools and educational institutions should play a crucial role in this by promoting child rights and integrating child protection policies into their systems.

As we celebrate National Children's Month, it is essential that we reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain. By uniting our efforts and prioritizing the safety and well-being of children, we can move closer to a future where every child in the Philippines can thrive without fear of violence. Let us commit to protecting children and creating a safer, more inclusive society.

Image Source: MSWDO Naic Cavite

References: Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). (2023). "National Children's Month 2023: DSWD calls for stronger collab to improve children's health" Retrieved from DSWD.