Save the Children
This presentation explores the comprehensive legal framework in the
Philippines designed to safeguard the well-being and protect the rights of
children. We'll delve into key child protection laws, highlighting their
significance in creating a safe and nurturing environment for every
Filipino child.
by Grace Antera Luzano
Overview of Child Protection Laws in the Philippines
The Philippines has a robust legal framework that prioritizes These laws are crucial for promoting a safe and nurturing
child protection, encompassing a wide range of laws that environment for children, ensuring their rights are respected
address various aspects of child well-being, from abuse and and protected. The government and various organizations
exploitation to labor rights and juvenile justice. actively work to implement these laws and raise awareness
about children's rights.
Republic Act No. 7610: Special
Protection of Children Against
Abuse, Exploitation and
Discrimination Act
1 Protection from Abuse 2 Combating Exploitation
This law defines and It criminalizes acts of
prohibits different forms of exploitation, such as child
child abuse, including labor, trafficking, and
physical, sexual, emotional, prostitution.
and neglect.
3 Elimination of Discrimination
The law prohibits discrimination against children based on their
gender, religion, ethnicity, or any other factor.
Republic Act No. 9231: An Act
Providing for the Elimination
of the Worst Forms of Child
Labor and Affording Stronger
Protection for the Working
Child
Eliminating Worst Forms Protecting Working
of Child Labor Children
This law prohibits the worst It also provides for the
forms of child labor, including protection of working children
slavery, forced labor, by ensuring their safety, health,
trafficking, and hazardous and education.
work.
Promoting Rehabilitation
The law includes provisions for the rehabilitation of children who
have been engaged in child labor.
Republic Act No. 9344: Juvenile
Justice and Welfare Act of 2006
Child-Centric Approach
This law promotes a child-centric approach to juvenile justice, focusing on
rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punishment.
Diversion Programs
It emphasizes diversion programs and alternative measures to address the
needs of children in conflict with the law.
Family Involvement
The law promotes the involvement of families in the rehabilitation and
reintegration process of children in conflict with the law.
Republic Act No. 9851: Philippine Act on Crimes
Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide,
and Other Crimes Against Humanity
This law criminalizes acts of genocide, crimes against
humanity, and war crimes, including those that affect The law also includes provisions for the protection of
children. victims of these crimes, including children.
1 2 3
It provides for the prosecution of individuals who commit
these crimes, regardless of their nationality or the location
where the crime occurred.
Republic Act No. 10630: An Act Strengthening the
Juvenile Justice System in the Philippines
Strengthening Juvenile Justice System
1 This law aims to further strengthen the juvenile justice system by providing for specialized courts and probation
services.
Protecting Children's Rights
2 It emphasizes the protection of children's rights, ensuring they are treated fairly and with compassion throughout
the justice process.
Prioritizing Rehabilitation
3 The law prioritizes the rehabilitation and reintegration of children in conflict with the law.
Republic Act No. 11188: Special Protection of Children
in Situations of Armed Conflict and Providing
Penalties for Violations Thereof
Protecting Children in Conflict
This law protects children from the harmful effects of armed conflict, such as
1
recruitment, exploitation, and abuse.
Prohibiting Recruitment
2 It prohibits the recruitment of children into armed groups and the use
of children in armed conflict.
Promoting Rehabilitation
3 The law provides for the rehabilitation and reintegration of
children who have been affected by armed conflict.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
The Philippines has made significant strides in establishing
comprehensive legislation for the protection of children. These laws are
instrumental in safeguarding children's rights, ensuring their well-being,
and promoting a nurturing environment for every Filipino child.
