Admin of Justice Midterm Obenieta

Taguig City University
Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan, Taguig City

Graduate School
Master of Science in Criminal Justice

THE ANTI-CHILD ABUSE ACT IN THE PHILIPPINES AND THE
ONGOING COMMITMENT TO PROTECTING THE
VULNERABLE
Comprehensive Reflection Presented

to the Faculty of the Graduate School
TAGUIG CITY UNIVERSITY
In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Subject
ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE
By:
SHRINE BLESSYL T. OBENIETA
March 16, 2024

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I. INTRODUCTION
Children represent the next generation of workers, leaders,

innovators, and citizens. All parents desire happiness for their children through
guiding them with love, time, and effort to reach success. However, children are
also among the most vulnerable population groups in society. In 2023, based on
the National Statistics of the Philippine National Police Women and Children
Protection Center PNP WCPC, there is a number of 17,681 VAC Violence
Against Children cases that are filed from their office. Hence, there is really a
need to look after their survival and living conditions, health and education as
their rights, welfare and development are at the core of the country’s social
development goals.
Every Children are entitled to certain fundamental rights and protections, as
recognized by international treaties such as the United Nations Convention on
the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) They are all particularly vulnerable to various
forms of harm, including abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination.
Protecting children from these risks requires robust legal frameworks, preventive
measures, and support services to safeguard their rights and ensure their safety
and dignity.
In the Philippines, our government through the Department of Social Welfare and
Development (DSWD) and the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), among
other agencies, have embarked on a comprehensive and integrated approach to
children’s development along the areas of survival, protection, development, and
participation. Part of this holistic approach is the prevention and early detection of
child maltreatment as well as the recovery, rehabilitation, and after-care for
maltreated or abused children. In fact, the Philippines is among the first countries
in the world that has adopted a Child and Youth Welfare Code. Passed in 1974,
the Child and Youth Welfare Code, also known as Presidential Decree 603 (PD
603), contains provisions that articulate not only the rights and privileges of
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children but also the responsibilities of the State and its institutions towards
children and youth.
II. HISTORICAL OVERVIEW
The Philippines has a complex history regarding efforts to combat child abuse,
with progress made in addressing the issue alongside persistent challenges.
Here’s an overview:
Colonial Impact: During the Spanish colonial period, child welfare was not a
primary concern, and instances of abuse likely went unaddressed. The American
colonial period brought some improvements, including the establishment of
educational institutions and orphanages, but widespread poverty and social
inequality persisted, contributing to vulnerability among children.
Early Code: The early 20th century saw the enactment of laws aimed at
protecting children, such as the 1923 Child and Youth Welfare Code. However,
enforcement was often lacking, and many abuses went unpunished.
Post-World War II: In the aftermath of World War II, efforts to address child
welfare gained momentum. The Philippine government established agencies
such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to oversee
child protection initiatives.
Children’s Rights Support: The Philippines ratified the United Nations

Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1990, signaling a commitment
to upholding the rights of children. This led to the adoption of laws and policies
aimed at protecting children from abuse and exploitation.
Republic Act 7610: Enacted in 1992, Republic Act 7610, also known as the
Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination
Act, provides legal protection for children against various forms of abuse,
including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as neglect.
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Campaigns and Awareness: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil
society groups have played a significant role in raising awareness about child
abuse and advocating for the rights of children. Campaigns and programs
focused on prevention, intervention, and support have been launched across the
country.
Challenges and Issues: Despite legislative efforts and awareness campaigns,

child abuse remains a pervasive problem in the Philippines. Factors such as
poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, cultural beliefs, and
inadequate enforcement of laws contribute to the perpetuation of abuse.
Child Labor: The Philippines also faces challenges related to child labor, with
many children engaged in hazardous and exploitative work. Efforts to address
child labor include legislative measures, educational programs, and livelihood
opportunities for families.
Trafficking and Exploitation: The Philippines is a source, transit, and

destination country for human trafficking, including the trafficking of children for
sexual exploitation and forced labor. Government and NGO efforts to combat
trafficking include prevention, prosecution of perpetrators, and support services
for victims.
Continued Efforts: Despite challenges, there is ongoing commitment to

combating child abuse in the Philippines. Efforts to strengthen child protection
systems, improve access to services, and empower children and families
continue to be prioritized at the national and local levels.
Overall, while progress has been made in addressing child abuse in the
Philippines, concerted efforts are needed to address underlying social, economic,
and cultural factors that contribute to vulnerability among children and to ensure
their rights and well-being are protected.
III. LEGAL FOUNDATIONS AND PROVISIONS

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The Philippines' legal framework for addressing child abuse is built on a number
of laws and regulations that offer victims' protection, assistance, and sanctions
for those who abuse them.
1. Republic Act 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse,

Exploitation, and Discrimination Act)
This law, which is sometimes referred to as the Anti-Child Abuse Law,

offers complete protection for kids against a range of maltreatment, such as
exploitation, discrimination, and emotional, sexual, and physical abuse. It defines,
forbids, and requires the reporting of child abuse and exploitation incidents. The
law also allows for the victims' rehabilitation and social reintegration and sets
specific processes for resolving situations involving abused children.
RA 7610 provides a comprehensive definition of child abuse,

encompassing physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect. It
recognizes the vulnerability of children and seeks to protect them from harm in all
its forms. The law empowers courts to issue protection orders to prevent further
harm to abused children. These orders may include temporary custody,
restraining orders against the abuser, and other measures to ensure the safety
and well-being of the child.
RA 7610 mandates the reporting of suspected cases of child abuse to the

appropriate authorities, such as the Department of Social Welfare and
Development (DSWD) or law enforcement agencies. It encourages individuals,
especially professionals working with children, to report abuse promptly. The law
establishes special procedures for handling cases involving abused children,
Master of Science in Criminal Justice Taguig City University Gen. Santos Avenue,
Central Bicutan, Taguig City Graduate School taking into account their sensitive
nature. It prioritizes the best interests of the child and ensures that legal
proceedings are conducted in a manner that minimizes trauma and promotes
their welfare.
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RA 7610 imposes penalties on individuals who commit acts of child abuse,
exploitation, or discrimination. Depending on the severity of the offense,
offenders may face imprisonment, fines, or both. The law also holds employers,
guardians, or persons in authority accountable for allowing or tolerating abuse
against children under their care. Recognizing the need for holistic support for
abused children, the law mandates the provision of rehabilitation and social
reintegration services. These services aim to address the physical, emotional,
and psychological needs of victims and help them recover from the trauma of
abuse.
RA 7610 emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and

programs to address the root causes of child abuse. It encourages the
development of community-based initiatives, educational campaigns, and support
services to raise awareness, promote positive parenting practices, and prevent
abuse from occurring in the first place.
Republic Act 9231 (An Act providing for the Elimination of the Worst Forms
of Child Labor and Affording Stronger Protection for the Working Child)
The goal of this law is to end child labor, especially in its more egregious
forms, which include trafficking, enslavement, and dangerous jobs. It forbids
hiring minors under a specific age for dangerous jobs and penalizes those who
break the law. Additionally, the law covers the social reintegration and
rehabilitation of child laborers and their families. RA 9231 defines and prohibits
the worst forms of child labor, including hazardous work, exploitative labor
practices, and any work that interferes with a child's education or jeopardizes
their health, safety, or moral development. The law establishes a minimum age of
employment, prohibiting the employment of children below a certain age in any
form of work. It aligns with international standards and ensures that children are
not subjected to labor exploitation at a young age.
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R.A. 9231 specifically identifies hazardous work that is deemed
detrimental to the health, safety, or morals of children. It prohibits children from
engaging in such work, regardless of their age or consent, to protect them from
potential harm and exploitation. The law imposes penalties on individuals,
establishments, or entities found guilty of employing children in violation of its
provisions. Penalties may include fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the
gravity of the offense and the number of violations committed. Recognizing the
vulnerability of child laborers, RA 9231 mandates the provision of protection and
rehabilitation services to children rescued from exploitative work situations.
These services aim to address their physical, emotional, and psychological
needs and facilitate their reintegration into society. The law emphasizes the
importance of education as a means to prevent and eliminate child labor. It
promotes access to quality education for all children and encourages the
development of skills training programs to equip former child laborers with the
necessary skills for alternative livelihoods.
RA 9231 establishes mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing

compliance with its provisions. It assigns responsibilities to government agencies,
such as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department
of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), to ensure effective implementation
and enforcement of the law. The law encourages advocacy efforts and public
awareness campaigns to mobilize support for the eradication of child labor. It
promotes collaboration among government agencies, civil society organizations,
employers, and communities to address the root causes of child labor and
promote child rights and welfare.
Republic Act 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995)
This law forbids sexual harassment in a variety of places, including the

workplace and educational institutions, even though it is not expressly directed
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against children. It acknowledges that minors may become victims of sexual
harassment and offers channels for reporting and dealing with such cases.
RA 7877 provides a clear definition of sexual harassment, encompassing

unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, non-
verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It recognizes that sexual
harassment can occur in various contexts and may involve individuals of any
gender. The law prohibits any form of sexual harassment in workplaces,
educational institutions, training centers, and other similar environments. It
emphasizes that sexual harassment is a form of gender-based discrimination and
violates the dignity, integrity, and rights of individuals.
RA 7877 mandates employers, administrators, or persons in authority to

prevent and address incidents of sexual harassment within their respective
domains. They are required to adopt and implement policies and procedures for
handling complaints, conducting investigations, and providing remedies to
victims. The law establishes mechanisms for reporting incidents of sexual
harassment and seeking redress for victims. It encourages the establishment of
grievance committees or similar bodies to receive complaints, conduct impartial
investigations, and recommend appropriate actions to address the harassment.
RA 7877 emphasizes the importance of protecting the privacy,

confidentiality, and dignity of victims of sexual harassment. It prohibits retaliation
or discrimination against individuals who file complaints or participate in
investigations related to sexual harassment. The law imposes penalties on
individuals found guilty of committing acts of sexual harassment. Depending on
the severity of the offense, perpetrators may face fines, suspension, dismissal
from employment or expulsion from educational institutions, or imprisonment.
RA 7877 promotes awareness and prevention programs to educate

individuals about their rights and responsibilities regarding sexual harassment. It
encourages the inclusion of training modules on sexual harassment prevention
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and response in workplace orientations, school curricula, and other relevant
settings. The law encourages collaboration between government agencies,
employers, trade unions, educational institutions, and civil society organizations
to promote a culture respect, equality, and non-discrimination. It recognizes that
addressing sexual harassment requires a multi-sectoral approach involving
various stakeholders.
Republic Act 8551 (Philippine National Police Reform and Reorganization

Act of 1998)
A Women and Children's Desk is to be established in each police station

to address complaints of violence against women and children, among other child
protection-related elements of this law. 8551 mandates the establishment of
Women and Children's Desks in all police stations across the Philippines. These
specialized desks are tasked with handling cases of violence, abuse, exploitation,
and discrimination against women and children. They serve as dedicated units to
ensure that cases involving children are addressed promptly and sensitively. The
law emphasizes the importance of training and capacity building for police
officers assigned to Women and Children's Desks. It requires these officers to
undergo specialized training on handling cases of child abuse, including proper
procedures for interviewing child victims, collecting evidence, and providing
support and referrals to victims and their families.
RA 8551 promotes coordination and collaboration between the PNP and

other government agencies, NGOs, and civil society organizations involved in
child protection efforts. It encourages information sharing, joint operations, and
mutual assistance to effectively respond to cases of child abuse and ensure the
welfare and safety of child victims. The law advocates for the adoption of child-
friendly practices and approaches in police stations and during the investigation
and handling of child abuse cases. It emphasizes the importance of creating a
safe, supportive, and nonthreatening environment for child victims, ensuring their
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participation and empowerment throughout the legal process. The law advocates
for the adoption of child-friendly practices and approaches in police stations and
during the investigation and handling of child abuse cases. It emphasizes the
importance of creating a safe, supportive, and non-threatening environment for
child victims, ensuring their participation and empowerment throughout the legal
process. The law reinforces accountability and oversight mechanisms to ensure
that police officers fulfill their responsibilities in addressing child abuse cases
effectively and impartially. It mandates regular monitoring, evaluation, and
reporting on the performance of Women and Children's Desks and the
implementation of anti-child abuse initiatives within the PNP.
Republic Act 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of
2004)
This law protects children who are the victims or witnesses of domestic
abuse, even though it primarily targets violence against women. It requires that
victims receive support services and allows protection orders to be issued.
RA 9262 provides a comprehensive definition of violence against women

and their children, encompassing physical, sexual, psychological, and economic
abuse, as well as acts of intimidation, harassment, or coercion. It recognizes the
interconnectedness of different forms of violence and their impact on the well-
being of women and children. The law empowers courts to issue protection
orders to prevent further harm to victims of violence. These orders may include
temporary or permanent protection orders, restraining orders against the
perpetrator, and other measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the victim
and their children.
RA 9262 mandates law enforcement agencies, including the Philippine

National Police (PNP), to respond promptly and effectively to cases of violence
against women and their children. It requires police officers to aid and protection
to victims, conduct thorough investigations, and file appropriate charges against
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perpetrators. The law imposes severe penalties on individuals found guilty of
committing acts of violence against women and their children. Offenders may
face imprisonment, fines, or both, depending on the gravity of the offense and the
presence of aggravating circumstances. RA 9262 emphasizes the importance of
providing protection and support services to victims of violence, including shelter,
counseling, legal assistance, and medical services. It mandates the
establishment of crisis centers and other facilities to cater to the needs of
survivors and their children. The law addresses issues related to child custody
and visitation rights in cases of violence against women. It prioritizes the best
interests of the child and considers factors such as the safety and welfare of the
child when determining custody arrangements and visitation privileges.
RA 9262 promotes education and prevention programs to raise awareness

about violence against women and their children, its causes, and its
consequences. It encourages collaboration between government agencies,
NGOs, and civil society organizations to develop and implement initiatives aimed
at preventing violence and promoting gender equality. The law emphasizes the
importance of coordination and collaboration among government agencies, law
enforcement agencies, service providers, and other stakeholders in addressing
violence against women and their children. It encourages the establishment of
inter-agency committees and multi sectoral partnerships to ensure a
comprehensive and coordinated response to the issue.
Republic Act 9775 (Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009)
This law forbids the creation, dissemination, and ownership of child

pornography in addition to the online exploitation of minors for sex. It offers
victims' protection and rehabilitation in addition to harsh punishments for
violators.
RA 9775 provides a clear definition of child pornography, encompassing

any material or representation that depicts a child engaged in explicit sexual
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activities, or the simulation of such activities, for the purpose of sexual arousal or
gratification. The law criminalizes the production, distribution, dissemination, sale,
and possession of child pornography in any form, including print, digital, or
electronic media. It imposes severe penalties on individuals found guilty of
engaging in such activities, including imprisonment and fines.
RA 9775 has extraterritorial application, meaning that it can be enforced

against Philippine citizens or residents who commit acts of child pornography
abroad, as well as foreign nationals who commit such acts within Philippine
territory. This provision aims to prevent the exploitation of children for
pornography, regardless of where the offense occurs. The law mandates the
preservation of electronic or digital evidence related to child pornography
offenses. It requires internet service providers, telecommunications companies,
and other entities to cooperate with law enforcement authorities in preserving and
securing electronic evidence for investigation and prosecution purposes.
RA 9775 establishes mechanisms for reporting incidents of child

pornography and seeking assistance or protection for child victims. It encourages
the public to report suspected cases of child pornography to the authorities or
through designated hotlines and online platforms. The law emphasizes the
importance of protecting the privacy, dignity, and rights of child victims of
pornography. It mandates the provision of support services, including counseling,
medical assistance, and rehabilitation, to child victims and their families.
RA 9775 promotes coordination and collaboration among government

agencies, law enforcement agencies, internet service providers,
telecommunications companies, and civil society organizations in combating child
pornography. It encourages information sharing, joint operations, and mutual
assistance to effectively address the problem. The law advocates for public
awareness and education campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of
child pornography, its impact on children, and the legal consequences of
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engaging in such activities. It promotes collaboration between government
agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders in developing and implementing
initiatives to prevent child pornography and protect children from exploitation.
IV. CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTATION
In the Philippines, struggles to fight child abuse have faced numerous

challenges over the years. There are some of the key challenges in implementing
anti-child abuse measures in the entire nation. The Poverty and inequality are
significant underlying factors contributing to child abuse in the Philippines.
Families living in poverty may face greater stressors and have limited access to
resources and support services, increasing the risk of abuse and neglect and that
is being part of the socio-economic factor. When it comes to traditional beliefs
and cultural practices it has this influence attitudes towards child-rearing and
discipline, or even sometimes normalizing behaviors that are harmful to children.
Addressing deeply ingrained cultural norms surrounding discipline and child-
rearing practices can be tough. Those persons who does not gain any education
or even knowledge with regards to the child abuse awareness including parents,
caregivers, and community members, may lack awareness of what constitutes
child abuse and the importance of protecting children from harm.
Education and awareness-raising initiatives are crucial in changing

attitudes and promoting prevention efforts. Inadequate Enforcement of Laws
especially on those families who has this everyday sequence like in the
Philippines has laws in place to protect children from abuse, enforcement can be
unreliable due to various issues, including limited funds, corruption, and
administrative inefficiencies. Strengthening law enforcement mechanisms and
ensuring accountability for perpetrators are essential for effective protection of
children. The Stigma that has every case of child abuse is often underreported
due to fear of revenge, shame, and a lack of trust in the justice system. Victims
and their families may hesitate to come forward, leading to underestimates of the
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prevalence of child abuse and hindering intervention efforts. Insufficient Child
Protection Structures faces challenges in developing and maintaining tough child
protection systems, including child welfare services, shelters, and rehabilitation
programs. Limited resources, infrastructure, and trained personnel can hamper
the effectiveness of these systems.
Those Province and cities disparities, Gaps between urban and rural
areas in terms of access to services, education, and socioeconomic opportunities
can exacerbate vulnerabilities to child abuse, with rural communities often having
fewer resources and support networks. Rising Challenges just like the digital age
presents new challenges, such as online child exploitation and cyberbullying,
which may require focused methods and collaboration between government
agencies, law enforcement, and tech companies.
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving

government agencies, civil society organizations, communities, and individuals.
Prioritizing prevention through education, improving access to support services,
strengthening enforcement of laws, and fostering a culture of child protection are
crucial steps towards effectively combating child abuse in the Philippines.
V. INTERAGENCY COLLABORATION AND HOLISTIC APPROACH
On Establishing interagency task forces composed of representatives from

government agencies, law enforcement, child welfare organizations, healthcare
providers, educators, and community leaders can facilitate coordination and
cooperation in addressing child abuse. These task forces can develop joint
strategies, share information and resources, and streamline service delivery. We
also need to partnerships between government agencies, civil society
organizations, faith-based groups, and the private sector to leverage diverse
expertise and resources in preventing and responding to child abuse. These
partnerships can support comprehensive prevention programs, victim support
services, and advocacy efforts. Adopting an integrated approach to service
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delivery by establishing child-friendly and accessible multi-disciplinary centers
where victims can receive medical care, counseling, legal assistance, and other
support services in one location.
Thus, providing a training and capacity-building programs for professionals

and frontline workers involved in child protection, including law enforcement
officers, social workers, healthcare providers, educators, and community
volunteers. Training should focus on recognizing signs of abuse, conducting
interviews with children, trauma-informed care, and legal procedures.
All VAWC Officers from the LGU’s needs to conduct public awareness
campaigns and educational initiatives to raise awareness about child rights, the
importance of reporting abuse, and positive parenting practices. These efforts
should target parents, caregivers, children, teachers, religious leaders, and the
broader community to challenge cultural norms that perpetuate abuse and
promote a culture of child protection. For the members of the Law Enforcement
Section or even those Inter- agencies advocating for the enactment and
enforcement of laws and policies that strengthen child protection measures,
including comprehensive anti-child abuse legislation, mandatory reporting
requirements, and measures to address online exploitation and cyberbullying.
Ensure that laws are effectively implemented and that perpetrators are held
accountable for their actions.
The LGU’s from city/municipalities offices will have to improve data

collection systems to gather accurate and comprehensive data on the prevalence
and nature of child abuse, including disaggregated data by age, gender, location,
and type of abuse. Support research initiatives to better understand the root
causes of child abuse and evaluate the effectiveness of prevention and
intervention programs. Every family in the community, by empowering the
children and their parents and by providing them with information, resources, and
support services to prevent abuse, protect their rights, and access assistance if
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abuse occurs. Promote positive parenting practices, strengthen family support
networks, and provide economic opportunities to reduce vulnerability to abuse.
VI. SOCIETAL IMPACT AND CULTURAL SHIFT
Disciplining a child can also become risky or disadvantageous. For the

respondents, child discipline becomes harmful when done excessively or too
frequently. It also becomes risky when corporal punishment is involved. They
further pronounced that when discipline goes out of bounds, the child may
become rebellious and hardheaded and may start telling lies to cover up his
wrongdoings. In addressing child abuse in the Philippines requires not just legal
and institutional changes, but also significant societal and cultural shifts.
Combating child abuse can impact Philippine society and lead to cultural
changes by breaking the silence into acknowledging and addressing the issue of
child abuse, Philippine society can break the culture of silence that often
surrounds it. Encouraging survivors to speak out and seek help can lead to a shift
in attitudes towards discussing and confronting abuse, reducing stigma and
shame associated with being a victim. Also, efforts to combat child abuse can
promote values that prioritize the well-being and rights of children. Emphasizing
respect, empathy, and compassion towards children can lead to a cultural shift
where children are seen as individuals deserving of protection and care, rather
than as objects of control or discipline.
Providing support and assistance to victims of child abuse empowers them

to reclaim their agency and voice. When victims are supported in their recovery
and given opportunities to participate in decision-making processes, it can foster
a sense of resilience and empowerment, challenging the perception of children
as passive recipients of abuse and changing parenting practices such as
education and awareness-raising campaigns can promote positive parenting
practices that emphasize non-violent discipline, communication, and nurturing
relationships. Encouraging parents and caregivers to adopt positive approaches
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to discipline and child-rearing can lead to healthier family dynamics and break the
cycle of abuse.
Addressing gender-based violence, including violence against children,

requires challenging traditional gender roles and power dynamics within families
and communities. Promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls
can lead to a cultural shift where violence and abuse are seen as unacceptable
and incompatible with gender justice. Thus, combatting child abuse requires a
collective effort from all sectors of society, including government agencies,
communities, religious institutions, and civil society organizations. Building
community networks and support systems for children and families can foster a
sense of collective responsibility for child protection, leading to a cultural norm
where safeguarding children is everyone's duty.
Every Integrating education on child rights, safety, and protection into

school curricula can help shape the attitudes and behaviors of future generations.
Teaching children about their rights and responsibilities, as well as how to
recognize and report abuse, can empower them to protect themselves and their
peers, contributing to a culture of safety and accountability.
The participation of numerous government offices such as the Department

of Health (DOH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG),
Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine National police (PNP), Department
of Justice (DOJ), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), National Economic
Development Authority (NEDA), National Youth Commission (NYC), Department
of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Agriculture (DA), local
government units and our own Commission on Human Rights (CHR), puts
forward a united front towards the end of violence against children. These are
powerful, relevant authorities that have decided to band together to end
children’s oppression.
VII. CONTINUED COMMITMENT TO PROTECTION

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Listed are the strategies that will provide a comprehensive and integrated
guidance to address the cycle of violence and achieve the vision of ending VAC
in the Philippines.
Promotion of Evidence-Based Parenting Program and Life Skills and

Personal Safety Lessons – This is a key preventive strategy that will guide:
improving parents’ and caregivers’ knowledge and skills in evidence-based
parenting, providing proper care and protection for children and adolescents, and
using positive discipline; the integration of evidence-based, age appropriate, and
gender-responsive parenting program and positive discipline in curriculum for
teachers and social workers; and develop children’s and adolescents’ skills in
protecting themselves from violence, reporting their experience of violence,
seeking help when needed, and managing their own anger and impulsivity.
These procedures should be evidence-based and age-appropriate. Evidence-
based parenting programs have been proven to work effectively in breaking the
cycle of VAC based on evaluation.
Capability building – This is another key preventive strategy designed to

strengthen the knowledge and skills of service providers in implementing and
monitoring the above programs. The service providers referred to here are social
workers, social work assistants, child development workers, teachers, health
workers, daycare workers, community organizers, barangay workers, police
officers, church workers, and staff of child caring institutions. These are the
service providers from government, NGOs, FBOs, community-based
organizations and communities that have direct contact with parents, caregivers,
children, and adolescents.
Comprehensive Communication for Behavior Change (C4BC) Strategy –

This is a preventive communication strategy targeting the whole population using
various channels, multi-media campaigns and advocacy materials. The aim is to
promote non-violent social norms and behavior that protect children and
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adolescents from violence, including evidence-based programming and positive
discipline for parents and caregivers, and life-skills education and personal safety
lessons for children and adolescents.
Children and Adolescent Participation/Mobilization – This strategy provides

opportunities for children’s and adolescents’ associations in communities,
schools, institutions, and workplaces, to participate in promoting social norms
and behavior that protect children and adolescents from violence, and to provide
peer counselling.
Straight Service Delivery – This involves the provision of appropriate and

quality protective, social, mental, health, legal, economic, and judicial services to
child and adolescent victims of violence, ensuring that they are rehabilitated and
reintegrated, and that violence and trauma are prevented from recurring.
Monitoring, Evaluation and Research – This is the key strategy that will
provide for tracking the implementation of the key strategies towards the
establishment of the identified key result areas, and for evaluating the relevance,
efficiency, effectiveness, impact and sustainability of the Government’s collective
interventions to end VAC. Through research, it also provides for the
documentation of lessons learned and good practices for wider replication.
Policy Advocacy – This is one of the two key strategies for establishing an
enabling environment for the prevention of violence against children and
adolescents, and for the provision of protective services for the victims of
violence. This strategy involves pro-active and collective undertakings to create
or amend laws, policies, ordinances and regulations relevant to the prevention of
violence and protection of child and adolescent victims of abuse. It also involves
monitoring the effective and consistent implementation of these laws, policies,
ordinances and regulations at different levels. It is generally directed at policy
makers, including politicians, government officials, public servants, media
practitioners, church leaders, development agencies and NGOs.
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Institution Building – This is the other key strategy involved in establishing an
enabling environment to end VAC, particularly in terms of establishing relevant
structures and systems. It aims to strengthen the national and sub-national
structures and systems responsible for implementing the key strategies and
interventions that will: improve parenting skills; enhance children and
adolescents’ capacity to protect themselves; and ensure the provision of
protective services for victims of violence.
VIII. CONCLUSION
Overall, preventing child abuse is not simply a matter of parents doing a

better job, but rather it is about creating a context in which “doing better” is
easier. Enlightened public policy and the replication of high-quality publicly
supported interventions are only part of what is needed to successfully combat
child abuse. It remains important to remind the public that child abuse and
neglect are serious threats to a child’s healthy development and that overt
violence toward children and a persistent lack of attention to their care and
supervision are unacceptable. Individuals could accept personal responsibility for
reducing acts of child abuse and neglect by providing support to each other and
offering protection to all children within their family and their community When the
problem is owned by all individuals and communities, prevention will progress,
and fewer children will remain at risk.
This statement highlights the multifaceted approach required to

effectively prevent child abuse and promote child well-being. It emphasizes that
preventing child abuse goes beyond individual parenting practices and requires
broader societal changes, including enlightened public policy, high-quality
interventions, and community engagement. By Creating policies that prioritize
child protection and provide support to families can create a conducive
environment for preventing child abuse.
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This may include measures such as access to affordable healthcare,
parental leave policies, quality early childhood education, and social safety nets
for vulnerable families. Also, the Implementation with regards to evidence-based
interventions and programs that support families, enhance parenting skills, and
address risk factors for abuse can be effective in preventing maltreatment. These
interventions should be accessible and culturally sensitive to meet the needs of
diverse communities.
Raising awareness about the serious consequences of child abuse and

neglect is crucial in changing societal attitudes and behaviors. Educating the
public about recognizing signs of abuse, reporting procedures, and available
resources can empower individuals to act and protect children in their
communities. Building strong communities where individuals support each other
and look out for the well-being of all children can create a protective environment.
This involves fostering social connections, promoting positive relationships, and
providing support networks for families facing challenges.
Everyone is encouraged to take personal responsibility for preventing child

abuse reinforces the idea that everyone has a role to play in safeguarding
children. This may involve offering support to struggling parents, intervening if
abuse is suspected, or advocating for policies that prioritize child welfare. Lastly,
recognizing that preventing child abuse is a collective effort that offers hope for a
better future can motivate individuals and communities to take action. Acts of
compassion and solidarity not only contribute to child protection but also
strengthen social bonds and foster a sense of common purpose.

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Taguig City University

Gen. Santos Avenue, Central Bicutan, Taguig City

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Comprehensive Reflection Presented

SHRINE BLESSYL T. OBENIETA

March 16, 2024

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Children represent the next generation of workers, leaders,

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

II. HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Children’s Rights Support: The Philippines ratified the United Nations

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Challenges and Issues: Despite legislative efforts and awareness campaigns,

Trafficking and Exploitation: The Philippines is a source, transit, and

Continued Efforts: Despite challenges, there is ongoing commitment to

III. LEGAL FOUNDATIONS AND PROVISIONS

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

1. Republic Act 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse,

This law, which is sometimes referred to as the Anti-Child Abuse Law,

RA 7610 provides a comprehensive definition of child abuse,

RA 7610 mandates the reporting of suspected cases of child abuse to the

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

RA 7610 emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

RA 9231 establishes mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing

Republic Act 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995)

This law forbids sexual harassment in a variety of places, including the

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

RA 7877 provides a clear definition of sexual harassment, encompassing

RA 7877 mandates employers, administrators, or persons in authority to

RA 7877 emphasizes the importance of protecting the privacy,

RA 7877 promotes awareness and prevention programs to educate

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Republic Act 8551 (Philippine National Police Reform and Reorganization

A Women and Children's Desk is to be established in each police station

RA 8551 promotes coordination and collaboration between the PNP and

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

RA 9262 provides a comprehensive definition of violence against women

RA 9262 mandates law enforcement agencies, including the Philippine

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

RA 9262 promotes education and prevention programs to raise awareness

Republic Act 9775 (Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009)

This law forbids the creation, dissemination, and ownership of child

RA 9775 provides a clear definition of child pornography, encompassing

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

RA 9775 has extraterritorial application, meaning that it can be enforced

RA 9775 establishes mechanisms for reporting incidents of child

RA 9775 promotes coordination and collaboration among government

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

IV. CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTATION

In the Philippines, struggles to fight child abuse have faced numerous

Education and awareness-raising initiatives are crucial in changing

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving

V. INTERAGENCY COLLABORATION AND HOLISTIC APPROACH

On Establishing interagency task forces composed of representatives from

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Thus, providing a training and capacity-building programs for professionals

The LGU’s from city/municipalities offices will have to improve data

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

VI. SOCIETAL IMPACT AND CULTURAL SHIFT

Disciplining a child can also become risky or disadvantageous. For the

Providing support and assistance to victims of child abuse empowers them

Master of Science in Criminal Justice