Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rexlon “Rex” Gatchalian called for widespread support to end violence against children (VAC) as the country celebrates the 32nd National Children’s Month (NCM) this November.
“This year’s event aims to reinforce the system and mechanisms in place to combat violence against children, which is one of the most serious issues affecting Filipino children,” Gatchalian said on Thursday.
The Philippine National Police’s Women and Children Protection Center said more than 17,600 incidents of VAC were reported in 2023 alone.
Gatchalian is concerned about the large number of VAC incidents, citing its impact on children’s development.
“Every child has the right to grow in an environment where they are valued and protected, and as the lead agency in social protection, we are committed to protecting children’s rights and ensuring that they grow in a safe and nurturing environment,” he said.
“This National Children’s Month, let’s work together through a whole-of-society approach in building a society where every child is free from violence and empowered to reach their fullest potential,” Gatchalian said.
The NCM, established by Republic Act 10661, is a yearly event commemorating the United Nations General Assembly’s ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) on November 20, 1989.
The event seeks to raise public awareness and support for the protection and promotion of children’s rights.
This year’s theme is “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines.”
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