Kenneth Masilang, the winning child performer on the Spoken Poetry competition was awarded during the online culminating activity of the 28th National Children’s Month. Photo courtesy of DSWD-3
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – A child-friendly has become more imperative amid the coronavirus disease pandemic.
Thus, underscored Department of Social Welfare and Development Central Luzon director Marites Maristela during the virtual culminating activity of the 28th National Children’s Month celebration.
Maristela, who is also chair of the Regional Sub-Committee for the Welfare of Children, called on partner agencies to intensify efforts for the protectionand promotion of the rights of children.
Recent reports from the RSCWC-3 noted a surge in child abuse cases at this time of the pandemic. Increasing risks of violence where children are exposed include maltreatment, gender-based violence, and sexual exploitation which are perpetrated by housemates or family members.
“As child protection actors, we should not let the current pandemic hinder us from protecting our children. It is at this time of pandemic that we need to extend our utmost efforts for them,” she said.
This, even as Maristela acknowledged the duty bearers for their dedication in performing their responsibilities for the children.
“As we go out knowing that we are not safe against the virus, we should always carry with us our duty of serving and working for our children,” she appealed.
The DSWD also called on its partner agencies to continuously implement their programs, services, and best practices to serve as examples to other local government units.
“We have to help each other in promoting a child-friendly society by sharing our knowledge to one another,” Maristela said. — Jag Lyra D. Costamero/PIA-3
