EDITORIAL - Abused children

At the height of the COVID-19 lockdowns, child welfare advocates had expressed concern over rising cases of abuse and exploitation of children. Many of the abusers were the children’s parents themselves or guardians. Quarantined at home even for their formal education, children became even more vulnerable to violence and abuse. With the lockdowns causing the loss of jobs and livelihoods, there was also a recorded spike in cases of online sexual exploitation and abuse of children.

Even with the gradual easing of COVID mobility restrictions and the full return of in-person classes, the Council for the Welfare of Children monitored nearly 9,000 cases of child abuse nationwide in 2022. In a briefing last Friday, the CWC stressed that the actual number is likely much higher, since many victims are unwilling or unable to report their plight or seek help.

The problem has been around even before COVID struck. The CWC, in a study conducted among 3,000 children pre-pandemic to assess their mental health, found that three of five children suffered some form of psychological abuse.

In November last year, as part of activities to mark National Children’s Month, the CWC launched a helpline to address cases of child abuse. The CWC’s Makabata Helpline 1383 has since received 43 reports of child abuse cases. An intensified information campaign may be needed to raise public awareness of the helpline. More information is also needed to bring home the point that preventing child abuse calls for the participation of various sectors including the community.

Even when witnessing child abuse or suspecting that a child may be a victim, many people are reluctant to interfere, especially if the perpetrators are parents or guardians. In 2004, a tough law was passed to fight domestic violence against women and children, Republic Act 9262. But there have been numerous complaints that even barangay officials who are tasked to implement RA 9262 are reluctant to step into what has long been considered as private family problems in Philippine society. There are also parents who argue that it is their prerogative to discipline their children in ways that they deem fit.

Schools have been more pro-active in fighting child abuse, but more effort is needed to protect students from adult predators employed in schools. There is also a serious lack of professional guidance counselors in the public school system. Providing sufficient information and opening easily accessible networks for reporting abuse can save many children.

While these are being worked out, cases of child abuse may be reported to 0915-802-2375 for Globe subscribers, or 0960-377-9863 for Smart. A message may also be sent to the Mabakata Helpline Facebook page, or e-mailed to [email protected].