As the country observes National Children’s Month this November, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) renewed its call to end online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) and urged all sectors to uphold and protect children’s rights in both digital and physical spaces.
CHR Commissioner and Focal Commissioner on Child Rights Atty. Beda A. Epres urged government agencies, communities, and families to work together in safeguarding children from online abuse.
“No child shall be left behind; no child shall be exploited, discriminated against, or abused. Every child must grow up safe, valued, and free to thrive with dignity,” Epres said.
The CHR stressed that efforts to end OSAEC must go beyond the month-long celebration, calling for sustained collaboration among all stakeholders.
“Protecting children from online sexual abuse and exploitation should not be confined to National Children’s Month,” the Commission said. “Ending OSAEC requires the shared responsibility of the government, communities, families, and individuals to ensure that every child grows up free from abuse and fear.”
Through its Child Rights Center (CRC) and regional offices, the CHR is rolling out activities this November to promote child protection, including presenting key studies at the Department of Justice’s Summit on Advancing Real Justice for Every Child, joining the Quezon City Anti-Drug Abuse Council Summit, and continuing the Kabataan Karapatan Caravan in various schools.
The Commission said it will also conduct monitoring missions in SOCCSKSARGEN and Surigao del Norte on issues such as displaced children, child labor, and child marriage, while the CRC engages in legislative forums to push for stronger child rights laws and policies.
According to the CHR, as one of the first countries to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the Philippines carries both a moral and legal obligation to uphold children’s rights in all spaces.
The CHR reaffirmed its commitment to this duty through continued advocacy, partnerships, and ground-level initiatives aimed at building “a nation for our children.”
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