Protecting Filipino Children: A Call to End Violence and Build a Safer Nation

The theme for the 2024 National Children's Month Celebration, “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines,” underscores the urgent need to address and eradicate all forms of violence against children. This theme serves as a rallying call for society to recognize the detrimental effects of violence—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—on children and to commit to creating a nurturing environment where they can thrive.

Violence against children remains a pressing issue in the Philippines, perpetuated by various factors such as poverty, lack of awareness, and social norms that tolerate abusive practices. These experiences leave lasting scars, hindering children’s emotional well-being, education, and future opportunities. By focusing on breaking the prevalence, the theme emphasizes the importance of identifying root causes, implementing prevention strategies, and strengthening protective systems for children.

The call to action to "end the violence" highlights the responsibility of all sectors—government, communities, families, and individuals—to work together in safeguarding children. Laws and policies, such as the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act and the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act, play a critical role in protecting children, but these must be effectively implemented and supported by grassroots advocacy.

Moreover, fostering a "safe Philippines" extends beyond eliminating violence. It involves creating a society where children’s voices are heard, their rights are upheld, and they are provided opportunities to grow in dignity and respect. This requires a holistic approach—strengthening education, improving family welfare, and promoting mental health.

The theme challenges us to unite and take concrete actions to build a future where every child is free from harm and fear. Only by ensuring their safety and well-being can we truly create a society that respects and empowers the next generation.

References

Laskey, J. (2020, December 3). Surviving domestic abuse and taking back your power. SIMS. https://www.sims.co.za/blog/surviving-domestic-abuse-and-taking-back-your-power

Salve Regina University. (2021, April 9). Students raise awareness for violence against children. Salvetoday. https://today.salve.edu/students-raise-awareness-for-violence-against-children/