Guidelines in handling kids affected by disasters sought

CEBU, Philippines -  Considering the irregular weather conditions experienced in the country these days, the Cebu City Council has requested the Department of Social Welfare and Services to come up with measures and guidelines in handling children affected by disasters and calamities.

In a resolution supported by his colleagues in the City Council, councilor Alvin Dizon said the measure aims to ensure the children’s safety and protection from abuse and exploitation during disasters and calamities.

“Various international and regional instruments spanning on human rights have recognized and protected children’s rights given their particular vulnerabilities especially in times of disaster and calamities,” he said.

Dizon cited Article XV Section 3 of Philippine Constitution, which provides that the “state shall defend the Right of children to assistance, including proper care and nutrition, and special protection from all forms of neglect, abuse, cruelty, exploitation, and other prejudicial to their development.”

He said there is a need to protect the children because they are one of the most vulnerable people in community, especially when calamities hit.

“Cognizant of the geographic location of our country aggravated by climate change which makes us extremely vulnerable to disaster and calamities and horrific tragedy brought by Yolanda which is estimated to have affected six million children, it is essential that disaster response should be children-sensitive and responsive to effectively meet the needs of children who are at higher risk of disease, abuse, and exploitation during disaster,” the resolution reads.

The Council also requested DSWS to coordinate closely with children-related non-government organizations and the Barangay Council for the Protection of Children in formulating the guidelines and measures to ensure that the policies would be comprehensive.  (FREEMAN)