“There is no trust more sacred than the one the world holds with children. There is no duty more important than ensuring that their rights are respected, that their welfare is protected, that their lives are free from fear and want and that they can grow up in peace." (Kofi Annan, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Secretary-General of the United Nations between 1997 and 2006)
The National Nutrition Council MIMAROPA Region participates in the observance of 28th National Children’s Month. In the Philippines, National Children’s Month is celebrated every November by virtue of Republic Act (RA) 10661 approved by the Former President Benigno S. Aquino III last 29 May 2015. This declaration commemorates the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child by the United Nations General Assembly on 20 November 1989, and seeks to instill its significance in the Filipino consciousness. The annual celebration is spearheaded by Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), National Youth Commission (NYC), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and board agencies.
The theme of the National Children’s Month this year is “Sama-samang Itaguyod ang Karapatan ng Bawat Bata sa Panahon ng Pandemya!” which aims to a) raise awareness and knowledge to the public on rights of every children, b) provide the acceptable care and protection, c) promote positive discipline in day-to-day situation, d) increase gut in reporting abusive experiences, e) intensify child-friendly environment, f) continuous monitoring of child-related protocols and g) assist local government officials in delivering their expected outcomes.
The logo symbolizes the rights of every child amidst pandemic COVID-19. Children must be protected at all costs especially to the current health crisis and other emergencies that may threaten their survival development, protection and participation. Shield also illustrates the children are authorized to fully claim their rights through well-supported environment.
Children must be entitled to achieve the best of all despite sex, race, citizenship, religion, social class and other contributing factors. Here are the 12 rights identified dedicated for every child: the right to be born well, the right to have a wholesome family life, the right to a versatile development of character, the right to have basic living essentials such as nutritious foods, clothing, shelter, medical assistance and other necessities, the right to be in an atmosphere were personality can be enhanced, the right to be well-educated and develop basic learning skills, the right to play and do recreational activities during the child’s leisure hours, the right to be protected and carried away from abusive individuals, the rights to live in a stress-free and negative environment, the right to be looked after when parents or guardians fail to sustain fundamental needs, the right to be led by a genuine and sincere government for better well-being and lastly, the right to age in a surrounding filled with love, tranquility and appreciation.
Every child is a blessing and one of a kind. Simultaneous effort from home, community and government must be endeavored for the harmonious well-being of children. (NKSLoyola)
Source:
Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC)
