Youth as ONE, Breaking Prevalence has BEGUN!

    

The 2024 National Children’s Month Celebration reminds us of an urgent and shared responsibility to create a safe environment for children in the Philippines. With the theme “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines,” this year’s campaign calls attention to the growing need to address violence against children in all its forms, whether physical, emotional, or online.

In celebration of the National Children's Month, I, as a part of the Supreme Secondary Learner Government of Ilocos Sur National High School joined the Provincial Little Officers program spearheaded by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office at the Provincial Farmers and Livelihood Center last November 12, 2024.

    I was elected to be the Provincial Veterinary Officer, my counterpart was Mrs. Donna Rosario. 

She told me that being a veterinary officer is very important, as it is part of emergency and rescue operations. Needless to say, we are very aware that animals are very important to us. This initiative of the PSWDO aims to give an insight of how important these sectors of the government are, including us, children, because Governor Jeremias "Jerry" Singson even told us in the flesh that children are assets, and the hope of unity and success in the future. Protecting children begins with acknowledging the realities they face. Many Filipino children endure abuse, exploitation, and neglect in settings that should be safe for them—homes, schools, and communities. Violence has long-term effects on a child’s well-being, including mental health issues, poor academic performance, and social withdrawal. The theme pushes us to confront these challenges head-on by promoting stronger laws, educating parents and guardians, and fostering open conversations that help children feel supported and safe.

    As a society, we need to act collectively to ensure every child grows up in a nurturing environment. Creating a safe Philippines for children requires stronger partnerships between government agencies, schools, local communities, and advocacy groups. Public awareness campaigns, better access to reporting channels, and inclusive programs for child development must be prioritized. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and create a generation that thrives in a safe and supportive country. UNICEF reminds us that “protecting children is not only a moral obligation but also a foundation for a just and prosperous society.” With this as a guiding principle, we must prioritize children’s safety and well-being as a shared responsibility. By breaking the cycle of violence today, we can pave the way for a future where every Filipino child can thrive without fear.

References

National Children’s Month. (2024, November 19). Retrieved November 19, 2024, from         https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=549796297802930&set=pcb.549797097802850

World Children’s Day. (2022, November). https://www.unicef.org/philippines/world-childrens-day.                  Retrieved November 19, 2024, from https://www.unicef.org/philippines/world-childrens-day