Manila: In line with the celebration of National Children’s Month (NCM) this November, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has called on duty-bearers and the public to bolster efforts in combating online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, as well as the spread of child sexual abuse and exploitation materials (OSAEC-CSAEM). “Let this National Children’s Month be our renewed affirmation to stand firm and united in ending OSAEC-CSAEM once and for all – because the safety and future of our children should never be compromised,” stated DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian.

According to Philippines News Agency, the annual observance of NCM is mandated by Republic Act 10661 to commemorate the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) by the United Nations General Assembly on November 20, 1989. This year’s celebration highlights the theme, “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!” aiming to engage a comprehensive government and societal approach to promote children’s rights to safety in both digital and physical realms.

Gatchalian emphasized collaboration: “Magtulungan tayo para sa mga bata. Patuloy nating isulong ang pagkaka-isa ng ating bansa para sa karapatan, kaligtasan, at kinabukasan ng mga kabataan (Let’s work together for the children. Let’s continue promoting national unity for the rights, safety, and future of the youth).”

The DSWD, alongside the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) and the National Youth Commission (NYC), spearheads the NCM celebration. To initiate the month-long observance, the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) – 3 is set to offer a one-day free ride for children or youth below 18 years old on November 3, during designated hours.

On November 7, a kick-off ceremony led by the CWC in Quezon City will feature a festival and messages of support from various stakeholders. Furthermore, on November 15, a National Play Advocacy Week Play Fair will be held in Lucena City by the CWC and the Philippine Play Coalition, focusing on promoting safe play spaces.

Additionally, the CWC will host an online Conference on Parenting in the Digital Age on November 24, streamed via their official Facebook page. The celebration will conclude with an activity at the SM Skydome, North EDSA in Quezon City on November 26.