Manila: The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) on Tuesday reminded communities, families, and local authorities to prioritize child protection during disasters.

According to Philippines News Agency, the CWC made this call as the country recovers from the impact of successive weather disturbances – Severe Tropical Storm Crising (Wipha), Tropical Storm Dante (Francisco), Typhoon Emong (Co-may), and enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat) last week. Children remain among the most vulnerable groups during natural disasters, being susceptible to physical harm, emotional trauma, psychological stress, abuse, and exploitation.

‘Mahalaga na masiguro ng mga magulang at miyembro ng komunidad na hindi malalayo at mapanatili ang mga bata sa mga pinagkakatiwalaang kamag-anak o kakilala lamang upang maiwasan ang pagkawala o pagkawalay ng mga ito (It is important for parents and community members to ensure that children are not taken far away and are kept only with trusted relatives or acquaintances to prevent them from getting lost or separated),’ the CWC said. It added that children must be given forms of identification for immediate reunification in cases of separation, whenever possible.

The public is also encouraged to teach children basic safety protocols during an emergency. The CWC also reminded the local government units and other concerned agencies to establish child-friendly spaces in evacuation centers, where children can stay safe, engage in recreational activities, and access psychosocial support.

To reinforce protection mechanisms, the CWC urged the public to report any case of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Reports can be submitted through the MAKABATA Helpline 1383 via landline, mobile, social media, or the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s e-Gov Super App. The CWC assured the public that it will remain on alert and ready to act, especially in disaster-affected areas.