“Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines”
Every November, the Philippines observes National Children’s Month, a celebration that underscores the importance of safeguarding the rights and welfare of children across the nation. In 2024, the theme “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines” resonates with urgency and purpose, highlighting the critical need to address the pervasive issues of violence against children and to create an environment where every child can thrive. The theme for 2024 has emerged against a backdrop of persistent challenges. Despite progress in various sectors, data from child rights organizations indicate that violence against children remains alarmingly high. This encompasses physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, which not only inflict immediate harm but also have long-lasting psychological impacts. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues, as families faced increased stress and economic hardships, leading to a rise in domestic violence and child abus...