Localization of Child Protection Mechanisms

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Table of Contents List of Acronyms

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Executive Summary

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Research Overview Background of the Research Research Objectives Research Sites Research Duration and Main Activities Research Team Stakeholders Research Framework Methodology Research Process and Work Flow Scope and Limitations

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Review of Related Literature

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Analysis and Findings Sources of Harm Framework on Localization of Child Protection Mechanisms Definition of Child Protection Child Protection Mechanisms Barriers and Enablers

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Conclusion and Recommendation

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Annexes Research Tools Quezon City Report Valenzuela Report San Juan Report

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List of Acronyms ADAC AHYD BADAC BCPC BDRRMP BHW BPSO CDP CDRRMO CHO CICL CIDG CP CRA CSO CSWDO DepEd DILG DRRM FGD GAD GKA HOA IEC KII LGU OSY PNP PNP-WCD RRL SPED SSDD TFYD TWG VAWC

Anti-Drug Abuse Council Adolescent Health and Youth Development Barangay Level Anti-Drug Abuse Council Barangay Council on the Protection of Children Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan Barangay Health Worker Barangay Peace and Security Officer Center for Disaster Preparedness City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office City Health Office Children in Conflict with the Law Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Contingency Planning Community Risk Assessment Civil Society Organizations City Social Welfare and Development Office Department of Education Department of Interior and Local Government Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Focus Group Discussion Gender and Development Guhit, Kulay, At iba pa Home Owners Association Information, Education, and Communication Materials Key Informant Interview Local Government Unit Out of School Youth Philippine National Police Philippine National Police - Women and Children’s Desk Review of Related Literature Special Education Social Services Development Department Task Force on Youth Development Technical Working Group Violence Against Women and Children

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Executive Summary The research project for the third year focuses on the localization of child protection mechanisms in urban communities in the Philippines. In the duration of the project, the research team was able to gather and evaluate the sources of harms and risks for children and youth in three key cities: Quezon, Valenzuela, and San Juan, including six (6) barangays: Bagong Silangan, Sta. Lucia, Arkong Bato, Ugong, West Crame, and Corazon de Jesus. Based on the results, it was revealed that all of the children and youth’s rights are under threat, namely: survival, protection, development, and participation. In particular, the children and youth are most at-risk in the area of protection and survival rights. Among the themes that revolve around these issues include intergenerational poverty, neglect, abuse, and influence of vices among others.

The findings also show that there are issues common for both cities and barangays, especially family related concerns, where all of the barangays have agreed to this as a source of risk. Adults and youth also have a similar perspective on harms. In the same way, there are issues discussed which are unique to the context of the barangay, such as health problems, sexual abuse, and existing policies that harm the well-being of children and youth. Also present in the narratives of the respondents is the common experience of risks and harms becoming even more pronounced or intensified during emergencies and disasters. Besides this, it remains clear that the more pressing concern for children and youth in urban communities are the “everyday” risks.

In order to assess the status of child protection in urban communities in the Philippines, the research team found it an imperative to seek the understanding of communities and duty-bearers regarding child protection. In the data gathering, both respondents from the city and barangay levels were documented. In Quezon City, the respondents viewed child protection primarily as the fulfilment of a child’s fundamental rights, which are survival, development, participation, and protection. In line with this definition, duty-bearers also mention that ensuring a child’s survival requires the provision of basic needs, such as food, clothing, shelter, and education.

In Valenzuela, the respondents expressed that child protection refers to structures that focus on the overall well-being of children and youth. Among the important elements of child protection mentioned were physical protection and security of young people, as well as emotional, psychological, and social needs of children. Another point of focus is the importance of the family life and household in the development of a child. In San Juan the definition of child protection revolves around child rights, including the provision of basic services for children. Also highlighted is the protection from harm and abuse as one of the leading indicators of child protection. Education was also given importance during the discussion. Lastly, the respondents emphasized the importance of guidance and values formation.

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Aside from the sources of harm, the research team also gathered data on the present mechanisms implemented by the cities and barangays in their localities to address concerns regarding child protection. Based on the data gathering, it can be shown that Quezon City is strong in terms of implementing projects and programs that target children and youth. It can also be seen that strong political will and partnership with different stakeholders are effective means to promote policies related to child protection. In Valenzuela City, the education of children and youth is prioritized in projects and programs.

At the same time, the local government unit (LGU) has included rehabilitation for juvenile drug addicts as one of their mechanisms to protect children and youth from addiction. The LGU also recognizes the roles of parents and guardians in projects for children and youth.

On the other hand, San Juan’s projects are geared towards responding to drug-related issues and concerns, as well as providing livelihood opportunities for those who surrendered under the Oplan Tokhang policy. Presence of ordinances that encourage good behavior in the barangay is also apparent. Strong participation of children and youth in arts and leadership is one strong factor which could be seen. Moreover, multi-stakeholder partnership is observed in implementing policies and projects.

In analyzing the data gathered on child protection, the research team was able to draw out existing barriers and enablers towards the localization of child protection mechanisms.

These barriers and enablers were identified based on the mechanisms present in the key cities and barangays. Recognizing that there are policies, projects, and programs that are effective, the factors that contributed to its success were documented. At the same time, the elements that posed as threats to the implementation of child protection mechanisms were also taken into consideration.

Among the enablers to the localization of child protection are political will, the functionality of the Barangay Council on the Protection of Children (BCPC), the presence of capacity building and values formation activities, presence of multi-sectoral engagement in planning and decision-making processes, and strong youth participation and organization. On the other hand, the barriers are inadequate funding and poor management of funds, weak implementation mechanism of laws and policies, capacity building and awareness-raising activities which are short term and project-based, limited programs on values formation, reactive and welfare-based programs, and lastly, limited participation of children and youth and other vulnerable sectors in the community.

In sum, the research team has recommended the following to strengthen the child protection localization initiatives of local governments and duty-bearers: first, child protection mechanisms must be deeply rooted in the family structure to be able to change the harmful norms and behaviors; second, stakeholders should consider more strategic, long-term, sustainable, and preventive mechanisms; third, children and youth protection should be mainstreamed in the local government agenda; fourth, duty-bearers must possess the capacity, political will, and commitment to children and youth protection to ensure sustainability and effective implementation.

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Moreover, mechanisms must also have a stronger and more effective monitoring and evaluation process. In addition, stakeholders should actively build, enhance, and sustain partnership, collaboration, and coordination among different stakeholders. Lastly, children and youth must be given the platform to become advocates, and the communities should foster “children and youth champions� at various levels.

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Background of the Research Children are one of the most vulnerable populations in the world and are the first to be affected during natural disasters, civil wars, political shocks, and displacement. Out of the world’s 7 billion population in 20171, 2.2 billion are children2, with a large percentage concentrated around Asia and Africa3. In the Philippines, the population currently stands at 103 million, and among the numbers, 25.2 percent remain poor and in this percentage, children, youth, and women are at the top of the poverty incidence, comprising the most vulnerable sector in the country.45 Despite their vulnerability, children and youth are also important drivers of the economy, contributing to economic growth and development6.

As outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), children have the right to be protected from “economic exploitation, harmful work, all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse, physical or mental violence, and separation from family members against their will7� Child protection being couched under the principles of human rights, is a necessity in governance and development.

Local governments are important stakeholders in child protection as they have significant autonomy and ability to provide for social services to the people at the local level.8 On the other hand, child protection mechanisms are even more significant and targeted when they have localized implementation. While local governments are similar in operation and social development goals, urban and rural development challenges are different. Problems in each setting are both distinct and important to be addressed. These challenges, especially in urban locales, need to be identified in detail to help the localization become a more fruitful and effective endeavor.

https://esa.un.org/unpd/wpp/Publications/Files/WPP2017_KeyFindings.pdf https://www.unicef.org/sowc2014/numbers/ 3 https://www.sos-childrensvillages.org/getmedia/384bc38a-62aa-4c2a-9563-a5ecc61b6a77/SOS-Child-at-risk-reportweb.pdf 4 http://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/27529/poverty-philippines-causes-constraints-opportunities.pdf 5 http://www1

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wds.worldbank.org/external/default/WDSContentServer/WDSP/IB/2009/10/30/000334955_20091030021045/Rendered/PDF /471750PAD0P082101Official0Use0Only1.pdf https://www.brookings.edu/blog/education-plus-development/2014/09/22/tomorrows-skilled-workforce-requiresinvesting-in-young-children-today-the-importance-of-early-childhood-development/ 7 https://www.unicef.org/protection/files/What_is_Child_Protection.pdf 8 1987 Phil. Const. art. X. 6

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Research Objectives The research project aims to identify platforms and avenues that will help localize child protection mechanisms in the urban context. Specifically, the study will seek to answer the following questions: 1. What are the main sources of harm to children and youth in the urban context in the Philippines?

2. What is the understanding of barangay and city stakeholders of child protection?

3. What child protection mechanisms (e.g. policies, structures, and practices) are in place at the barangay and city levels?

4. How are child protection mechanisms implemented at the city and barangay level?

5. What are the challenges and issues that confront relevant stakeholders from the barangay and city in the implementation of child protection mechanisms?

6. What are the differences of child protection in peace time and crisis situations?

7. What are the recommendations in strengthening the localization of child protection mechanisms at the barangay and city levels?

Research Duration and Main Activities The following timeline reflects the main activities of the research and its duration:

The initial months of the project focused on preliminary activities dealing with meetings, coordination, data collection, draft writing, sending of letters, as well as the Re-entry Orientation for cities and barangays. This orientation served as a venue for the project team to explain the details of the research to the stakeholders and duty-bearers from all the locales.

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Research tools and interview questions were then formulated by the team for the conduct of the data gathering. After the development of these tools, the data gathering process in the cities and barangays soon followed. The team was also able to document the results, create a report outline, and report writing tasking.

The last few months of the timeline was focused on formulating the initial analysis, data validation visits, and consultation meetings with the research and project teams. A framework was also developed in order to appreciate the results of the analysis in a more systematic and understandable way. The last leg of the research process was the presentation of the results at the National Disaster Risk Reduction Forum hosted by Plan International-Philippines and Center for Disaster Preparedness (CDP) on June 1, 2017, in Quezon City. The research team will also send copies of the reports to the stakeholders of the project.

Research Sites The study was carried out in six (6) informal settler communities in Metro Manila particularly in the cities of Quezon, San Juan, and Valenzuela. The specific barangays engaged by the research team were Bagong Silangan and Sta. Lucia in Quezon City; Arkong Bato and Ugong in Valenzuela City; and Corazon de Jesus and West Crame in San Juan City.

The barangays involved in the implementation of the research were identified in consultation with the members of the Technical Working Group (TWG) organized in each of the target cities comprised of representatives from the various departments of the local governments and barangay councils.

Research Team The Research Team was composed of four (4) researchers, with one (1) Lead researcher, and three (3) Research Assistants. The members of the research team have commendable background and experience in conducting research projects relating to disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) and climate change, with special focus on children and youth.

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The matrix below outlines the specific responsibilities of the research team:

Role Lead Researcher

Responsibilities • Develop the research design and methods through a research design workshop in collaboration with the assistant researchers • Lead the drafting of the guide questions for the key informant interviews and focus group discussions • Lead the conduct of data gathering activities with various project stakeholders at all levels • Supervise the development of an inventory of the collected data • Lead the preparation and analysis of data for the final report • Lead the drafting of the final report

Assistant Researchers

• Collect relevant documents and reports for desk review • Join the Lead Researcher in the research design workshop • Assist in drafting the guide questions for the key informant interviews and focus group discussions • Coordinate with key stakeholders for data collection • Assist in the conduct of data gathering activities with various project stakeholders at all levels • Document the conduct and results of the data gathering process • Assist in the development of an inventory of the collected data • Assist in the preparation and analysis of data for the final report • Assist in drafting of the final report • Provide administrative and logistical support to the different activities of the project

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Stakeholders The research team has conducted key informant interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) with the following stakeholders:

Nature of Organization National Agencies

City-Level Areas: Quezon City, San Juan City, Valenzuela City Name/ organization Respondents

City Government

Department of Education – Division Office Department of Interior and Local Government – per City Philippine National Police – Women and Children’s Desk City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) City Health Office (CHO) City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) City Council on Children and Youth

Division Head, DepEd Division Office Chief, City DILG Head, PNP WCD Head, CDRRMO Head, CSO Head, CSWDO Committee Head

Barangay Level Areas: Sta. Lucia, Bagong Silangan, Arkong Bato, Ugong, Corazon de Jesus, West Crame Nature of Name/ organization Respondents Organization Barangay Local Barangay Council for the Protection of Head Government Unit Children / Violence Against Women and Children (VAAWC) Barangay Development Council Head Women and Children’s Desk Head Barangay Health Worker (BHW) Head Barangay Tanod/ Barangay Peace and Head Security Officer (BPSO) Task Force on Youth Development Head / Member (TFYD) / Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) School School teachers (including SPED) Community Parents

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Local Organizations

Out of School Children / Youth School children School youth Home Owners Association (HOA) Faith-based organizations LGBT organizations Persons with disability organizations Youth groups

Head / Member Head / Member Head / Member Head / Member Head / Member

Research Framework In its aim to study the localization of child protection mechanisms, a framework anchored around the principles of human rights, inclusivity, and multi-stakeholder participation guided the research team.

The children and youth who are the focus of this study possess inalienable rights, as indicated under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child9 (as cited from Children’s Rights Alliance, 2015): •

Survival rights: These include the child’s right to life and the needs that are most basic to existence, such as nutrition, shelter, an adequate living standard, and access to medical services.

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Protection rights: These ensure that the children are safeguarded against all forms of abuse, neglect and exploitation. These include: special care for refugee children, safeguards for children in the criminal justice system, protection for children in employment, and protection and rehabilitation for children who have suffered exploitation or abuse.

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Development rights: These rights include the right to education, leisure, and cultural activities; access to information; and freedom of thought, conscience and religion.

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Participation rights: These encompass children's freedom to express opinions, to have a say in matters affecting their own lives, to join associations and to assemble peacefully. As their capacities develop, children should have increasing opportunity to participate in the activities of society, in preparation for adulthood.

The research team was conscious in safeguarding these rights especially during data gathering processes wherein children and youth are involved. Moreover, this research employed an inclusive approach, listening to the voices of vulnerable and marginalized

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http://childrensrights.ie/childrens-rights-ireland/un-convention-rights-child

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people, and allowing for the meaningful participation of relevant stakeholders such that through this study, their views and perspectives are valued and elevated to a wider platform.

Finally, under the principle of multi-stakeholder participation, representatives from various sectors were invited to share their diverse knowledge and opinions under the subject matter of child protection to ensure that a 360-degree view of challenges, gaps, and policies, structures, and practices from all levels.

All these principles were utilized in the exploration of child protection mechanisms in Quezon City, San Juan City, and Valenzuela City. Ultimately, the findings regarding the localization of child protection mechanisms in these cities yielded recommendations toward strengthening the resilience of children and youth in the urban context.

The study’s framework can be seen below.

Figure 1. Study framework. A visual depiction of the framework upon which this research is anchored.

Human Rights Strengthened Multi-stakeholder participation

Inclusivity

Localization of Child Protection Mechanisms

resilience of

children and

youth in the urban context

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Methodology Review of Relevant Literature (RRL) For the research team to have a broader understanding of child protection, documents, reports, and other relevant materials were collected. A desk review of these documents enabled the team to have a deeper grasp of child protection concepts, approaches, and processes critical in identifying opportunities for localization in the urban context.

Specifically, the team focused on the existing policies, structures, and practices governing child protection. Among the avenues utilized for data gathering are online research and coordination with Plan International-Philippines and other relevant government and nongovernment organizations involved in child protection work.

Key Informant Interview (KII) The research team has conducted one-on-one interview sessions to have a better awareness of processes and approaches related to child protection. Representatives from local government units, DRRM councils, civil society organizations, schools, and communities were interviewed individually for about an hour. A set of guide questions aided the research team in doing the interviews to identify platforms for localizing child protection

mechanisms

in

the

urban

context.

Furthermore,

challenges

and

recommendations on the existing policies, structures, and practices governing child protection were given attention by the research team during the discussion with the chosen respondents. The Child Protection Policy of Plan International-Philippines guided the interview sessions with children and youth conducted by research team.

Focus Group Discussion (FGD) To encourage the active participation of various respondents especially those from the community, focus group discussions were conducted. For each session, the research team involved around eight (8) to twelve (12) individuals engaged in activities and programs with children and youth. Each of the FGD sessions lasted for about two to three hours. The conduct of FGD became an effective channel for the community respondents to openly express their perspectives with regard to issues and recommendations on localizing child protection. Given that the respondents were in a group setting, the FGD offered an enabling environment for them to be vocal and interactive. The research team employed participatory tools that create a non-threatening atmosphere for both the adult and youth respondents. Likewise, the Child Protection Policy of Plan International-Philippines guided the FGD sessions facilitated together with the children and youth.

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Research Objectives, Variables, and Indicators The following table presents the research objectives, variables, indicators, and methods involved in the data gathering process.

Objectives What are the main sources of harm to children and youth in the urban context in the Philippines?

• •

•

What is the • understanding of barangay and city • stakeholders of child protection?

Variables Perception of hazards and risks Perception on impacts of past disasters and everyday risks across: ü age ü gender ü socioeconomic background ü culture and religion ü disability ü length of stay in the community ü during peacetime and conflict situations Information on sources of harm from barangay and city stakeholders Perception on child protection Information on child protection from barangay and city stakeholders

Indicators Methods • Accounts on • KII past disaster • FGD experiences • RRL • Data on sources of harm

• Accounts on • KII dealing with • FGD child protection • RRL issues and concerns • Data on child protection mechanisms

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Objectives

Variables

How is child protection different during peacetime and crisis situations?

What child protection mechanisms (e.g. policies, structures, and practices) are in place at the barangay and city levels?

How are child protection mechanisms implemented at the city and barangay level?

• Perception on child protection in peacetime and crisis situations

What are the challenges and issues that confront relevant stakeholders from the barangay and city in the implementation of child protection mechanisms?

• Information on child protection policies, structures, and practices from barangay and city stakeholders

Indicators (e.g. policies, structures, and practices) • Accounts on child protection in peacetime and crisis situations • Data on child protection mechanisms (e.g. policies, structures, and practices)

• Reports from • Data on child barangay and city protection constituents on mechanisms the (e.g. policies, implementation structures, and • Level of practices) participation of city and barangay stakeholders in child protection policy making • Specific concerns • Accounts on and issues concerns and experienced by issues policy-makers and constituents

Methods

• KII • FGD • RRL

• KII • FGD • RRL

• KII • FGD • RRL

• KII • FGD • RRL

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Objectives Variables What are the • Assessment of recommendations harm vis-a-vis in strengthening child protection the localization of mechanisms (e.g. child protection policies, mechanisms at structures, and the barangay and practices) in place city levels? at the barangay and city levels

Indicators • Proposal on strengthening the localization of child protection mechanisms at the barangay and city levels

Methods • KII • FGD • RRL

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Research Process and Workflow

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Scope and Limitations In this study, the data included are the most updated it could be, given the limitations of the researchers in terms of accessing the latest census and statistics from the local governments and barangays. In terms of the respondents involved, there are many factors that have affected their composition in each barangay. Among them include challenges in coordination, and conflicting schedules (e.g. respondents have classes), especially with the children and youth.

Moreover, the data gathered from the research have been utilized only as far as the consent of the respondents has allowed. No data was taken beyond the agreed terms. In writing the research, some of the names of the respondents have been removed for their own privacy.

It should also be noted that not all children and youth have same understanding of the research tools, therefore each of the respondents’ answers are unique from one another.

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Introduction There is a wealth of literature on the state of the youth, child protection, and communitybased child protection mechanisms. The United Nations Population Fund's report, State of the World Population 2014, gives several statistics and accounts which illustrated the significance of the youth as a sector. As of 2014, there were 1.8 billion young people between 10 and 24 years old, making this the largest number of young people at any time in human history, with 89% of the youth living in least developed and developing countries (UNFPA, 2014). The UNFPA (2014) notes that while the youth make-up a huge chunk of the world's population, particularly in developing countries, there is a lack in youth participation in public policy and policy directed primarily towards the concerns of the youth. Young people face numerous struggles that impede their capacity to bring about positive changes: a lack of access to education, difficulty in finding sustainable employment, lack of relevant knowledge on health and human rights, lack of access to healthcare and safe spaces, vulnerability to exploitation, detrimental gender roles and gender based-violence, and other similar obstacles (UNFPA, 2014). The UNFPA (2014) report states that if policy-makers were truly sincere in harnessing the great potential of young people worldwide, they would enact efforts toward increasing participation and interventions in their everyday lives; interventions targeted towards improving access to equitable education, eliminating gender disparities, stopping child marriages, and similar positive changes that work towards the realizing the “demographic dividend” or the economic growth resulting from changes in a population's age structure.

The Philippines is a developing country with a significant population of young people.

People from the ages of 0 and 24 comprise 53% of the total population, or 54.2 million people, as of 2016 (Central Intelligence Agency, 2016). While the country's economy grew an average of 6% in the past six years, a significant portion of the population remained below the poverty line, living on less than 73 pesos a day (Yap, 2016). Yap (2016) reported that 26 million Filipinos live below the poverty threshold, while half of that figure – 12 million Filipinos – live in extreme poverty, and are unable to eat three meals a day. The Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao suffers the worst poverty rates, with half of its population living below the poverty threshold (Yap, 2016).

Moreover, the Philippines is vulnerable to many hazards, both natural and human-induced.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) reported that 12.3 million Filipinos were affected by natural disasters in 2016, with the country being highly exposed to earthquakes, tsunamis, tropical cyclones, and human-induced conflicts.

In 2016, over 5.2 million people were affected and 4.9 million people were displaced by Typhoon Lawin and Typhoon Nina, 285 thousand farmers were hit by El Nino dry spells and drought, and 75 thousand people in Mindanao were affected by armed conflict and clan feuds (OCHA, 2016). Armed conflicts are human-induced disasters that pose a significant impact on the lives of hundreds and thousands of Filipinos, particularly those in Mindanao.

Belligerent groups such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the New People's Army (NPA) regularly clash with government forces.

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Given that a significant portion of Filipinos still live below the poverty line, and that the country is vulnerable to numerous natural and human-induced hazards, children in the Philippines are exposed to many sources of harm which worsen their physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Of children aged 0 to 60 months old, 34% suffered from stunted growth, 20% from being underweight, and 7% from wasting, while 63% of 22 million households suffered from food insecurity, affecting 23% of children (OCHA, 2016). In addition to the risk of large-scale disasters, children are also at risk from everyday forms of violence present in households, schools, and communities. State agencies such as the Department of Education (2009) and NGOs such as Save the Children (2011) reported how Filipino children often experienced physical, verbal, and sexual abuse, as well as the deprivation of basic rights. The present administration has also implemented programs that contribute to a climate threatening the safety and welfare of children. With President Rodrigo Duterte's anti-drug campaigns, 7,242 people have been killed in both vigilantestyle killings and legitimate police operations such as Oplan Tokhang and Oplan Double Barrel Alpha (Bueza, 2017). 30 children have become victims in the campaign against illegal drugs, while many have been left orphans, or have lost a family breadwinner because of state-sanctioned killings (Weiss, 2017). Meanwhile in House of Representatives, there is a proposal to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 15 years old to 9 years old (Dumlao, 2017).

The Philippines poses significant structural challenges towards creating systems and mechanisms that target child protection. A longer overview of these challenges will be discussed later on. These protection issues extend beyond the domestic sphere, and affect nearly every facet of the lives of children.

Definition of Children and Child Protection There are numerous international agreements and national laws which aim to safeguard the rights and protection of children. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child defines children as those who are below the age of eighteen, and lists 54 articles that cover their rights and freedoms, as well as measures to implement these rights. Meanwhile, the Children's Emergency Relief and Protection Act or RA 10821 also defines children as those who are unable to take care of themselves.

Meanwhile, child protection involves the use of measures and structures to prevent and address abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence against children (Save the Children, 2011),. These structures are tied to social protection, a wider effort of creating policies and programs designed to reduce poverty and vulnerability (Save the Children, 2011). UNICEF (2006) defines child protection as the “prevention and response to violence, exploitation, and abuse targeted towards children.� Child protection involves the creation of an environment that safeguards children from harm, develops their abilities, gives them

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access to quality basic social services, and enables the community to prevent further abuse (UNICEF, 2006).

Legislative Foundations of Child Protection on a National Level Child protection is enshrined in the very constitution of the Philippines. Article 15, Section 3 states that the state must safeguard “the right of children to assistance, including proper care and nutrition, and special protection from all forms of neglect, abuse, cruelty, exploitation and other conditions prejudicial to their development.�

There are several local laws and policies in place that aim to protect children, such as RA 9208 or the Anti-Trafficking in Person Act, RA 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act, RA 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, and RA.9775 or the AntiPornography Act (Save the Children, 2011). Save the Children (2011) talks of Child 21, or the Philippine National Strategic Framework for Plan Development for Children, which established a roadmap of how formal and non-formal institutions would prioritize resources in promoting the rights of children, which was concretized in the National Plan of Action for Children in 2005.

RA 7610, or An Act Providing for Stronger Deterrence and Special Protection Against Child Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination, and for Other Purposes, was passed in 1992 and was one of the earliest and most comprehensive laws which recognized the state's role in according specific protection of children from all avenues of prejudice and violence, and in the state's power to directly intervene through prevention and rehabilitation to maintain the best interests of the child. RA 7610 focuses mainly on protecting children from child prostitution and other sexual abuse, child trafficking, obscene publications and indecent shows, other acts of abuse, and circumstances which endanger the survival and growth of children, and also contains specific provisions on working children, children of indigenous peoples, and children in situations of armed conflict.

In 1967, RA 4881 or An Act Creating a Council for the Protection of Children in Every City and Municipality of the Philippines enabled the creation of local city and municipal councils which specifically focused on the securing children's welfare. In 2004, the Department of Interior and Local Government released Memorandum Circular No. 2004-52, on the creation of a sub-committee of the barangay council for the protection of children, as part of a larger national program called Bright Child. Meanwhile, in 1975, Presidential Decree 603 enabled the creation of the Council for the Welfare of Children, the main government agency tasked with integrating pro-children policies in national and local development plans and increasing awareness, advocacy, and social mobilization for children's rights. The Committee for the Special Protection of Children (CSPC) was created in 1995 through Executive Order No. 275, which was made to help enforce RA. 7610. This was improved through Executive Order No. 53 in 2011, which added key agencies and improved its focus on formal mechanisms for child protection.

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In July 2012, the Department of Justice drafted the 3rd Comprehensive Program on Child Protection (CPCP) for 2012 to 2016, which followed the 1st CPCP and 2nd CPCP implemented from 2001 to 2005 and 2006-2011 respectively. The 3rd CPCP covers the 2nd National Plan of Action for Children, which aims to realize the aspects of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which concern children, such as the reduction of child mortality and the achievement of universal access to primary education. The 3rd CPCP aims to properly enforce all existing child protection legislation, improve monitoring of local child protection policies, unifying systems of rights-based protection, and propagating a culture of care and compassion.

RA 10821 or An Act Mandating the Provision of Emergency Relief and Protection for Children Before, During, and After Disasters and Other Emergency Situations accords state agencies the mandate to ensure the welfare of children and enact special procedures to maintain their safety and well-being during times of disasters and severe disruptions in the daily lives of communities.

The Department of Education, in 2012, released Order No. 40, or the Policy and Guidelines on Protecting Children in School from Abuse, Violence, Exploitation, Discrimination, Bullying, and Other Forms of Abuse. The Order aims to strengthen the role of schools in safeguarding children from violence, bullying, abuse, and corporal punishment. This is especially relevant as one of the noted gaps in Philippine legislature is the lack of penalties for corporal punishment. The Order stated clearly the duties and responsibilities of schools, and the composition of the school's child protection committee and its functions, as well as the strategies it should use in fact-finding, interventions, and referrals.

Yacat (2016) reported that in 2009, the 14th Congress passed RA No. 9858, which recognized children born out of wedlock and amended the family code. In the same year, RA. 9745 or the “Anti-Torture Act of 2009” was also passed, which prohibited and punished all forms of torture and other cruel and inhuman acts, particularly acts against children (Yacat, 2016).

RA. 9231 or the “Special Protection of Children Against Child Exploitation and Discrimination Act” fulfills the mandate of child protection by declaring in its Section 2 that it is the policy of the state of protect children “from all forms of abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation, and discrimination” and to “rehabilitate children threatened by circumstances which affect their normal development.” It prohibits children below 15 years of age from working for more than 4 hours a day or 20 hours a week, and specified penalties for employers caught forcing children into the worst forms of child labor.

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Legislative Foundations of Child Protection on the International Level On the international sphere, the main legal framework safeguarding the protection of children is the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. As mentioned above, it mandates that children have the rights to safety, parental guidance, care, free expression and association, access to education, information and health care, adequate standards of living, and other aspects which would ensure the proper development and well-being of children. The implementation of the Convention is monitored by the Committee on the Rights of the Child, a body of 18 independent experts working under the OCHA (OCHA, 2017).

The United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Administration of Juvenile Justice was ratified in 1985, and aims to humanely address issues of children in conflict with the law as well as their rehabilitation. This was strengthened by the United Nations Rules for the Protection of Juveniles Deprived of Their Liberty, ratified in 1990, aiming to give special protection and to uphold the fundamental rights of children in conflict with the law. A more proactive and less reactionary approach is emphasized in the Riyadh Guidelines or the United Nations Guidelines for the Prevention of Juvenile Delinquency. Additional international frameworks specifically crafted towards children include the Guidelines for Action on Children in the Criminal Justice System and the United Nations Common Approach to Justice for Children (UNICEF, 2010).

There are numerous laws and international frameworks in place meant to protect children from harm, and address pre-existing issues of abuse. However, there are still gaps present within these policies, as well as challenges when it comes to implementation, which necessitates involving all sectors in society to forward formal and non-formal mechanisms for child protection.

Concepts on Child Protection We previously stated that child protection involved preventing children from suffering abuse, exploitation, or violence, as well as responding to cases of harm. Plan International defines child protection as “the term used to describe steps taken to ensure that no child suffers from any actions which may cause them harm.� Plan International (2012) also states that there was a recent shift from focusing on child protection issues such as focusing on child labor and trafficked children, to improving child protection systems, signifying a shift from a reactionary approach to a proactive approach meant to stop harm before it occurs.

Plan has also been at the forefront of campaigning to localize child protection mechanisms by improving them on a community level, linked to larger national systems. This will be discussed in the next section.

UNICEF (2006) states that the essential components for an effective child protection system were the following; ensuring government commitment and capacity to uphold children's rights, promote implementation of laws and policies, change harmful norms and behaviors,

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create avenues for open discourse, develop children's capabilities, capacitate families and communities, focus on prevention and response, and ensure proper monitoring and evaluation.

Ager, Akesson, and Schunk (2006) wrote a report for UNICEF on mapping child protection tools for monitoring and evaluation. They stated that child protection tools encompassed a wide variety of mechanisms: questionnaires and surveys, frameworks for measuring variables of progress, guides and manuals, case management forms for documentation of cases, databases for recording, and other various forms of quantitative tools that do not fall into the other categories. They found a lack of tools addressing children affected by armed conflict, child trafficking and migration, and child injuries, with the focus more towards tools addressing general concerns of child protection. They also recommended regular and updated documentation, as well as a mixed-method approach utilizing multiple tools.

Child Protection: Response and Prevention Two main threads underlie mechanisms of child protection; either they attempt to resolve preexisting issues that endanger and harm children, or they aim to make environments that eliminate the possibility of harm altogether. While response is a vital component in child protection and still forms a crucial aspect of child protection frameworks, agencies – particularly non-governmental organizations – have shifted towards a more proactive approach which aims to create an environment free from all forms harm, abuse, or exploitation.

Mechanisms for response normally come into play when dealing with specific issues that endanger the welfare of children such as; child prostitution, child abuse, child pornography, teenage pregnancy, poverty, hunger, child marriages, and others. Laws such as RA 7160 outline the different forms of harm to children, and states the resulting penalties incurred by each, showing the state's responsive nature to child protection. In 2016, the Committee for the Special Protection of Children under the Department of Justice drafted the Protocol of Case Management of Child Victims of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation, which gives a comprehensive overview of how government agencies should respond to cases of child abuse and harm in a sensitive and productive manner. Other government agencies such as the Department of Education (DepEd, 2012) and Department of Social Work and Development (Rappler, 2014) also released documents on responding to child abuse within the school or community. The Department of Justice (2008) also released a guide for media practitioners on the proper methods of reporting on cases of child abuse and harm, which emphasizes such principles like the importance of consent and respect for the confidentiality of the victim's identity.

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Meanwhile, a more integrated approach of prevention and response was synthesized by the CSPC of the DOJ in the 3rd Comprehensive Program on Child Protection (CPCP). The document gave a very thorough overview of the situation of child protection, lessons learned, roles of key agencies, protocols for dealing with abuse and neglect, and observing and evaluating present programs. The CPCP was one of the first local documents to recognize how vital preventive intervention is, and how it is necessary to create a safe, protective environment for children, governed by a web of systems. The CPCP will be discussed again later on, as it is one of the first government documents which mentions localization in the context of child protection.

Implementing Bodies of Child Protection Locally, the Committee for the Special Protection of Children (CSPC) under the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Department of Social Work and Development (DSWD), Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), and the Barangay Child Protection Councils (BCPC) are primarily tasked with implementing child protection at the national and local levels (Roche, 2017).

The DSWD was the primary government agency tasked with giving care, providing basic welfare programs, and upholding the rights especially of children from marginalized sectors, while the CWC was tasked with creating public policy and guidelines for implementing and monitoring child protection (Roche, 2017). The BCPC ensured the implementation of these policies on a barangay-level. Other government agencies tasked with child protection and response include the Commission on Human Rights Child Rights Center, the Anti-Child Abuse, Discrimination, Exploitation Division of the National Bureau of Investigation, and the DOJ Task Force on Child Protection (DOJ, 2017). These formal agencies are all mandated to respond to report of child abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

The Department of Education also enacted Order No. 40 or the “DepEd Child Protection Policy�, which aimed to create a safe, conducive school environment for children, and took a zero-tolerance stand when it came to abuse, bullying, and exploitation in the school setting. It explicitly defines the various forms of bullying, physical, verbal, sexual, and psychological abuse, as well as the procedures to be taken to address these problems, whether they come from the child's peers or school superiors. It also established the Child Protection Council (CPC) in schools, and outlined how to provide care for victims.

Moreover, the 3rd Comprehensive Program for Child Protection (CPCP) also mandates that other government agencies take steps to ensure child protection. The Department of Health and Philippine National Police have special child protection units (CPCP, 2016).

Personnel of the Department of Interior and Local Governance, Commission on Human Rights, National Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Immigration all receive training when it comes to institutionalizing child-friendly procedures. Additionally, nongovernmental organizations such as ECPAT (End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes) and the Inter-Faith Network for Children are

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included in the module, to emphasize the role that civil society plays in educating state actors on child rights, and in creating a safe environment (CPCP, 2016).

Approaches to Child Protection As previously stated, recent theories and frameworks on child protection have taken a prevent, holistic, all-of society approach to ensuring children's safety and welfare. This approach is generally characterized by; an emphasis on the overall environment of child protection rather than specific issues; the participation, involvement, and direct management of programs by stakeholders such as women, persons with disabilities, and children; a systematic approach which engages and integrates all actors in the community, from the government-level to civil society to faith-based groups to the nuclear family; a rights-based model which puts prime significance on the rights of children, and highlights their strengths and capacity for resilience (UNICEF, 2004; UNICEF, 2016; Plan International, 2016) Plan International's “Child-Centered Urban Resilience Framework” (2016) was one most recent and most significant pieces of literature on child protection, which also takes into account the specific needs of children depending on the context. Though it discusses child protection in the context of the city, it also provides a set of useful approaches upon which to craft child protection policies. It has three main principles: urban-systems thinking, a strength-based approach, and a rights-based approach (Plan International, 2016).

Additionally, its focuses on four key aspects of child protection; promoting integration, creating safe spaces, mobilizing the community, and sustaining life (Plan International, 2016). Lastly, Plan International (2016) lists twelve interventions which are based on the four key aspects of child protection. These twelve interventions are centered on providing care for children on a physical, emotional, and social level; creating an environment with safe and accessible facilities; and involving the community in child protection (Plan International, 2016).

Localization of Child Protection One of the most significant challenges in child protection is ensuring that international and national policies are understood and implemented at the local level, so that children directly benefit from the policies meant to protect them. There is a small but growing amount of literature emphasizing localization – or the specific adaptation of international and national policies to particular social and cultural contexts for greater effectiveness – and a primary example of localization is the increased focus on community-based childprotection mechanisms (CBCPMs). Plan International (2010) defined CBCPMs as networks of organizations and individuals dedicated to the protection of children, which function at a grassroots level. Formal CBCPMs are those working under national or local government policies, while informal CBCPMs are those initiated locally without any formal legislation.

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This section will deal first with foreign experiences with CBCPMs, and then with regional and local examples, mainly spearheaded by Plan International.

Dodge and Daro (2009) examined North American programs which used a community-based framework to address problems with child protection. They theorize that even the bestintentioned parents can be overwhelmed and defeated by a negative immediate environment, which necessitated the support of community manpower and resources to help disadvantaged parents. Their theoretical framework states that community norms helped shape parents’ views on appropriate ways of interacting with children, and who to seek help from. Community resources can also help alleviate stress and give parents a reprieve. The researchers state that though the current evidence base for communitybased child abuse prevention was relatively young, it offered encouragement and caution that a well-thought and comprehensively crafted community-based program could have long-term effects towards creating safe and productive neighborhoods.

The Columbia Group for Children in Adversity (2011) conducted their own research on the linkages of community based child protection mechanisms (CBCPMs) with the national child protection system of Sierra Leone. They note that the main protective factors in the setting were parental care and support from extended relatives, the socialization of proper behavior from kin, the Chiefs and traditional systems of governance, NGOs, and Family Support Units (FSUs) such as police and social workers. The Columbia Group report that in the context of Sierra Leone, there were numerous threats to children: sexual abuse and exploitation, teenage pregnancy, dangerous labor, severe corporal punishment, HIV/AIDS, severe poverty, and genital mutilation. There were also divergent views on what parents and children thought to be harmful to children: for example, some parents saw corporal punishment as necessary to development, while children only viewed it as hurtful. The main formal aspect of the child protection system was the National Child Protection System, which was the primary body of the government to implement its child protection program. However, because of severe shortages of financial resources and difficulties in reaching remote areas, the non-formal aspects of the child protection system such as CBCPMs have often stood at the frontlines of shielding children from abuse, exploitation, and violence.

Wessells (2009) conducted an inter-agency review of community-based child protection mechanisms in emergency and development settings. He notes that a multi-level protective system fit with the emerging ecological model of child development, which recognized the role of the physical and social environments in determining a child's personal development (Wessels, 2009). He also notes that communities seemed to be a natural factor in child protection, as they were crucial units for collective planning and action, and often filled the vacuum of providing social services, when the larger government was unable to do so (Wessels, 2009). However, Wessells (2009) notes that a comprehensive review of the documents of community-based child protection groups showed that the evidence was rather weak, because the majority of documents had no baseline measurements, had little comparisons between pre-and-post intervention measures, and were often anecdotal in nature. He found a diverse array of groups that

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forwarded children's rights and protection: child rights committees focused on raising awareness on the issues of children, while child protection committees directly addressed these issues, such as abuse and neglect. Broad spectrum groups focused on a wide set of children's issues, while focused groups centered their efforts around a particular issue, such as HIV/AIDS. He found that the evidence gathered was enough to suggest the properly crafted and implemented community-based child protection groups yielded positive outcomes for children.

Among formal institutions in the Philippine context, the DOJ has been the primary advocate for localization. Its 3rd Comprehensive Program on Child Protection (CPCP) (2016) mentions that localization involved the adaption of the document among local government units.

LGUs spearheaded the localization process by creation local plans and actions to implement the procedures outlined in the 3rd CPCP, and improving its systems-approach by involving all relevant government agencies and LGU officials in the process (CPCP, 2016).

CPCP (2016) recommends that localization be implemented through the following methods; involvement of regional and local child protection authorities, integration of localization processes in LGU planning and budgeting, involvement of non-governmental and non-state bodies in local adaptation, and involvement of parishes and other religious institutions in translating child-rights policies on the ground.

Plan International has been at the forefront of advocating for CBCPMs across numerous countries from several different continents. At present, Plan (2015). supports thousands of small to medium sized CBCPMs across several continent, with each CBCPM usually having 6 to 50 members. They target specific issues affecting children, such as teenage pregnancy, parental neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, prostitution, exploitation, and other sources of harm. They have several roles within communities: to raise awareness, conduct risk-mapping in communities, provide additional support, intercede in contentious cases, linking local incidents with formal and legal authorities, following up on cases, and providing a bridge to national child protection systems. CBCPMs have often succeeded in drafting and lobbying for new policies, changing harmful traditions and improving behavior, and empowering children through their increased participation. These CBCPMs have children and communities at the center of policy-making, to ensure that the policies made and implemented are those that fulfill the needs of its main stakeholders. Effective CBCPMs (Plan, 2015) have a comprehensive understanding the the beliefs, traditions, perceptions, and customs, and build on these factors to create local plans and actions that address the root causes of community problems, especially those that endanger children.

Localization of international laws and national frameworks are affected by pre-existing social norms in the communities, and CBCPMs adjust accordingly, to maximize possible gains within the community (Plan, 2015).

Locally, Plan (2012) has projects in 387, primarily directed towards strengthening the barangay child protection councils, while it also supports informally-organized groups which take upon roles of child protection. Among these informally-organized groups are child protection groups which address domestic and gender-based violence, female representation, and the roles of men in reducing violence. An example of this is the Women

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and Children Protection League in Southern Leyte, which Plan helped in addressing the management of child abuse, and is now linked with larger organizations such as Plan Philippines. Additionally, many local CBCPMs also address concerns of women representation, with groups being comprised of an equal number of male and female parents (Plan, 2012). In the Philippines, as in the rest of Asia, Plan (2012) uses CBCPMs to strengthen duty-bearers and equip them with the necessary skills to create a child-friendly environment, as well as to gather information, spread knowledge, and utilize local players such as fathers and religious personnel to reduce child abuse. This reiterates how CBCPMs are one of the primary methods of organizing efforts towards the localization of child protection.

Localization, Child Protection, and Resilience Localization appears to be vital in terms of building resilience in communities, especially among children. Many of the activities that localization – primarily CBCPMs – implemented on the ground level are in line with the ways of strengthening resilience in communities.

Awareness-raising, risk-mapping, and inclusive participation preparation are among the many activities implemented by CBCPMs, and are instrumental in ensuring that communities are well-equipped to cope and recover from the effects of hazards. Save the Children (2017) noted the following methods in resilience-building which also work towards child protection: awareness-raising on natural and human-induced hazards, formation of DRR and emergency management plans, identification of hazards and vulnerabilities, and disaster preparation which considers the physical and social spaces of the community.

These methods are also conducted by localization mechanisms such as CBCPMs, and streamlining them into the general framework of child protection and policy-making would contribute towards making safer communities.

In the local context, CBCPMs can be instrumental in fostering the mechanisms for localization as mandated by the 3rd CPCP. Given the noted lack of resources many BCPCs have to deal with, informally-organized CBCPMs can fill in many gaps when it comes to official local and national mechanisms for child protection. Because they function on the ground, they are natural vehicles for localizing the government's programs for child protection, and can work towards creating stronger bonds of community and kinship within a group, thus improving the immediate and overall environment for child protection.

Additionally, the emphasis that localization consistently places on the participation of all sectors – most especially children – would help institutionalizing practices of inclusive planning and policy-making, and would ensure that programs created – even at a national level – have direct, positive, and long-lasting effects on individual communities.

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Disaster and Everyday Risk Considered to be the first piece of legislation focusing on children and disasters, RA. 10821 was considered a landmark law, targeted towards protecting and delivering the basic needs of children during disasters. However, the high incidences of poverty, as well as other present vulnerabilities still pose a great challenge to ensuring the protection of children, especially during disasters. Disasters and other emergencies also create situations which can harm and kill children, as they are one of the sectors most vulnerable to natural hazards such as typhoons and landslides (Save the Children, 2011). Save the Children (2011) also talked of human-induced disasters such as the numerous armed insurgencies within the country, which also threatened children's welfare. Armed conflicts between belligerent groups such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF), and the military have led to internally displaced persons, states of insecurity, loss of schooling, psychosocial distress, and exposure to physical harm and violence. These human-induced disasters pose everyday risks, as armed conflict is still continuously being waged in areas in the countryside, and still continues to affect the day of day living of those caught in the crossfire.

Children are also often placed in situations that, on a daily basis, risk their safety and wellbeing. The Save the Children (2011) report notes that children living in non-group settings – such as foster care of kinship care – risked receiving less attention, becoming targets of discrimination and stigma, and finding themselves in exploitative situations with their supposed carers. Meanwhile, the report also states that there were four million economically active children aged 5 to 17 years old, who were working rather than fully studying, with 2.4 million children exposed to hazardous working environments which threatened them with long hours, hard labor, and a host of medical conditions such as fatigue and chest pains. The Philippines is also a hotbed for human trafficking, with the United Nations giving a total of 600,000 to 800,000 Filipino victims of worldwide trafficking.

Local agencies have documented hundreds of cases of human trafficking every year, victims of child labor, prostitution, illegal job recruitments, or pedophiles and child pornography (Save the Children, 2011). DepEd (2009) also illustrates the existence of violence against children in public schools. 3 out of 10 children in Grades 1 to 3, as well as 5 out of 10 high schoolers experienced physical violence from teachers, 40% of gradeschoolers and 70% of high-schoolers experienced verbal abuse from teachers, while a third of Grade 4-6 students and 42% of high-school students experienced sexual abuse from teachers (DepEd, 2009).

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Concluding Remarks The vulnerability of the Philippines to natural hazards as well as the complex web of social, political, and economic troubles present in contemporary society make child protection a challenging project for all stakeholders involved, despite the presence of numerous national and international laws that aim to safeguard the rights and welfare of children.

The protection of children and children's rights may be greatly aided by two methods; localization of national and international policies to fit particular communities, and an allsystems approach that aims to utilize the vast resources present in the local community for the betterment of its youth.

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Department of Justice. (2008). Guide for Media Practitioners on the Reporting and Coverage of Cases Involving Children. (2008). Ermita, Manila: Author. Retrieved from: https://www.doj.gov.ph/files/2016/THE%20GUIDE%20FOR%20MEDIA%20PRACTITIONERS.p df Department Of Justice. (2012, July). Protecting Filipino Children from Abuse, Exploitation, and Violence: A Comprehensive Program on Child Protection, 2012-2016. Ermita, Manila: Author. Retrieved from: https://www.doj.gov.ph/files/2016/CPCP%202012-2016.pdf Department of Justice. (2014, November 26). Protocol for Case Management of Child Victims of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation. Ermita, Manila: Author. Retrieved from: https://www.doj.gov.ph/files/transparency_seal/2016-Jan/CPNCSPC%20Protocol%2026Nov2014.pdf Department of Justice. (2017). Child Protection Program. Retrieved from: https://www.doj.gov.ph/child-protection-program.html Dumlao, A. (2017, January 17). Lowering age of criminal responsibility an anti-child policy, says solon. The Philippine Star. Retrieved from: http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/01/17/1663559/lowering-age-criminal-liabilityanti-child-policy-says-solon Gupta, M.D., Engelman, R., Levy, J., Luchsinger, G., Merrick, T., Rosen, J. (2014). The Power of 1.8 Billion: Adolescents, Youth, and the Transformation of the Future. New York, New York: United Nations Population Fund.

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Philippines. (1967). Republic Act No. 4881: An Act Creating a Council for the Protection of Children in Every City and Municipality of the Philippines.

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Save the Children. (2017). Resilience. Retrieved from: http://www.savethechildren.org.ph/our-work/emergencies/what-we-do/resilience The Columbia Group for Children in Adversity (2011, July 25). An Ethnographic Study of Community-Based Child Protection Mechanisms and Their Linkage With the National Child Protection System of Sierra Leone. Retrieved from https://www.savethechildren.org.uk/sites/default/files/docs/Ethnographic_Phase_Repor t_Final_7-25-11_1.pdf United Nations Children's Fund. (2004). The National Framework for Children's Participation. Retrieved from: https://www.unicef.org/philippines/downloads/framework.pdf United Nations Children's Fund. (2006, May). What is Child Protection? Retrieved from: https://www.unicef.org/protection/files/What_is_Child_Protection.pdf United Nations Children's Fund. (2010, October 6). Child Rights and International Legal Framework. Retrieved from: https://www.unicef.org/tdad/index_56373.html United Nations Children's Fund. (2011, March 22). UNICEF's approach to child protection.

Retrieved from: https://www.unicef.org/protection/57929_57990.html United Nations Children's Fund. (2013, May). Actions for Children and Youth Resilience: Guide for Governments. Retrieved from: https://www.unicef.org/lac/gg_english_ultima.pdf United Nations Children's Fund. (2013, December 27). [Table Statistics]. At a glance: Philippines. Retrieved from: https://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/philippines_statistics.html United Nations Children's Fund. (2016). Child protection in the digital age: National responses to online child sexual abuse and exploitation in ASEAN Member States. Bangkok City: Author.

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United Nations, General Assembly. United Nations Guidelines for the Prevention of Juvenile Delinquency (The Riyadh Guidelines), A/RES/45/112 (December 1990), available from: http://www.un.org/documents/ga/res/45/a45r112.htm United Nations, General Assembly. United Nations Minimum Rules for the Administration of juvenile Justice, A/40/R/33 (November 1985), available from: http://www.ohchr.org/Documents/ProfessionalInterest/beijingrules.pdf United Nations, General Assembly. United Nations Rules for the Protection of Juveniles Deprived of their Liberty, A/RES/45/113 (December 1990), available from: http://www.un.org/documents/ga/res/45/a45r113.htm Weiss, B. (2017, February 17). “Children and Duterte's drug war: Lessons from the past.”

Aljazeera. Retrieved from: http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2017/02/children-duterte-drug-warlessons-170216121942335.html Wessels, M. (2009, November). What Are We Learning About Protection Children in the Community? Washington, D.C.: Save the Children.

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Sources of Harm The following section will be discussing some of the most pressing sources of harm identified by children, youth, as well as adults during the data gathering phase of the research. As gleaned from the data, all of the children and youth’s rights are under threat, namely: survival, protection, development, and participation rights. However, the children and youth are most at-risk in the area of protection and survival rights. This can be exemplified in the discussion of threats originating from the household, where families experience intergenerational poverty, and children and youth suffer from neglect, abuse, and influence of vices, among others. But in the same way that child rights are interconnected, they are also continuously affected by the interlocking problems that cross-cut between households, schools, and communities.

The table presented details the commonly occurring sources of harm for the three key cities of the research, namely: Quezon, Valenzuela, and San Juan, as well as the two (2) focus barangays for each city. Marked with a check are the occurring and present sources of harm for each barangay.

Consolidated Table on Sources of Harm for the Cities and Barangays

Sources of Harm Familyrelated issues Sexual abuse and other child abuses Peer influence Bullying Drugs Oplan Tokhang Hazards due to factories

Quezon City Bagong Sta. Lucia Silangan

Valenzuela Arkong Ugong Bato

San Juan Corazon West de Jesus Crame

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It can be seen from the table that there are issues common for both cities and barangays, especially family related issues, where all of the barangays have been marked. This stems from the commonality of problems experienced by the localities, as well as the nature of risks present in their communities. Adults and youth also have a similar perspective on harms, which will be discussed further later on.

Aside from similarities, there are also certain issues which remain unique for each barangay owing to different circumstances and contexts, as will be discussed in the following accounts. Another common theme in the narratives of the respondents is the discussion on sources of harm becoming even more exacerbated during emergencies and disasters.

This finding validates the present literature and framework on disaster risk reduction and management, where vulnerable sectors such as women, children, and persons with disabilities are prioritized in the planning and implementation process of risk reduction mechanisms in order to cushion the effects of disasters towards the population.

Perspectives of the Youth a. Family-related issues As one of the core foundations in the socialization and development of a child, the family is an essential unit in every young person’s life. But as revealed in this study, the household is also a venue for some of the major sources of harm that youth experience. In fact, the children and youth from the different barangays all shared that the household is one of the biggest sources of risk in their everyday lives. Domestic conflicts have the propensity to escalate into bigger ones, extending towards the community setting – creating new problems, and complicating existing ones. In Barangay Arkong Bato, the youth share how neglect of parents lead children into delinquency, rebellion, and wayward behavior, ranking this issue as their number one source of harm. In Barangay Ugong, the youth expressed that their top source of harm is domestic conflict, manifested through verbal and physical abuses from family members. In witnessing and experiencing violence continuously, youth are exposed to behaviors which they may imitate through time. This violent family life characterized by everyday poverty, abuse, and neglect serves as a preview to the compensation these children will need in terms of love, affirmation, and guidance, having been brought up in a home where these are absent.

In Barangay Bagong Silangan, the youth identified harms in the household perpetrated by parents and other family members. Among the conflicts they experience with parents is fighting, misunderstanding, constant anger, hot-headedness, and mistreatment.

Disagreement between siblings is also apparent. These characteristics of the household has led to a lack of communication between family members, ranking fourth in the top five sources of harms towards children and youth. Similar to other barangays, parental neglect often leads to peer influence, as the lack of attention from parents lead children and youth to seek support from their friends. Furthermore, this neglect makes children and youth feel abandoned and unloved – leading to rebellious and difficult behavior. On the other hand,

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the youth of Sta. Lucia experience family issues through having irresponsible parents who do not provide them attention, thus resulting to an absence of open communication and lack of respect. Children and youth often join gangs and barkadas as a way to cope with their family problems.

In the city of San Juan, Corazon de Jesus youth experience intergenerational poverty and difficulties within the family. Children “inherit” the problems of their family members, especially when they are unable to solve them because of poverty and lack of access to basic services. Children also witness adults using illegal drugs in the household, and experience violence inflicted by family members. On the other hand, the West Crame youth believe that corporal punishment from family members is a source of harm in the household setting.

b. Bullying According to Part II, Section 5 of the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, “bullying” is: “… any severe, or repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination … directed at another student that has the effect of … causing or placing the latter in reasonable fear of physical or emotional harm or damage to his property; creating a hostile environment at school for the other student; infringing on the rights of another student at school; or materially and substantially disrupting the education process or the orderly operation of a school …”

Bullying, according to the law, can also be done through the use of technology, which is termed as “cyber bullying”, while other forms include “social bullying” and “gender-based” bullying. Retaliation against someone who reports the event is also considered as bullying.

The children and youth of the barangays commonly share that bullying occurs mostly in the school setting. In Ugong for example, bullying was described as a “common” occurrence. In Arkong Bato, most of the bullying are done by members of gangs composed of youth in poverty-stricken areas of the city, towards students from the local public high schools. In Bagong Silangan, bullying is the top 2nd source of harm, where children and youth share that bullying is being done by children because of their need to gain acceptance from their peers. They also share that some of them experience gender-based bullying. On the other hand, victims of bullying in Bagong Silangan also lose selfconfidence, stop schooling, or even commit suicide as a result. Children and youth from Sta. Lucia, Corazon de Jesus, and West Crame also mention bullying as a source of harm.

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c.

Influence of barkada

Peer groups, gangs, and barkada play a large role in the lives of children and youth in the cities and barangays. As actors in the critical stages of their development, they are considered by children and youth as a source of harm because most of their relationships within the group influence them to commit crimes, engage in vices, and veer towards delinquent behavior. In the narrative of the respondents, they share how it is the children and youth coming from poor, troubled households that are susceptible to joining these groups. Living a difficult life where family members have little regard for their emotional growth and needs, these children choose to find their sense of belonging outside of their homes. Functioning as a second family, these peer groups, gangs, and barkadas become a source of harm because it is within these groups that delinquent behavior is practiced and encouraged, thereby becoming a norm.

In Barangay Arkong Bato, children and youth relate membership in gangs and barkada to not having strong moral foundations, making them more likely to choosing and engaging the wrong crowd. In Ugong, influence of peers is a top two (2) source of harm. The desire to conform and belong pressures these children and youth to rebel against the rules by cutting classes so that they can play basketball or computer games. A phenomenon called “anak-anakan” also exists, where girls join cliques. The newer members, or “anak” (child) are mentored by the older ones in the group, or the “nanay” (mother). This phenomenon shows the longing for a family structure composed of a core group that would serve as guardians or role models for children and youth, which they do not have at home.

In Barangay Bagong Silangan, the influence of barkada ranks third as a source of harm, while in Sta. Lucia, it ranks 4th. Barangay Corazon de Jesus also mentions it as a harm, especially occurring in the school setting. All of the barangays identified have similar experiences of children and youth getting involved in fights and gang wars through their membership in these groups, disrupting their schooling and compromising their relationships with their families.

d. Vices (e.g. gambling, smoking, drinking alcohol) Based on the results, vices such as gambling, smoking, and drinking alcohol are sources of harm that children and youth relate to peer influence. According to the respondents, these vices are activities which they learn from their peers, and perform in the community setting, sometimes in the streets. Vices in itself is a source of harm to children and youth, but the effects of vices are deep and cross-cutting. Because of engaging in these activities, some youth cut classes due to addiction, or are not able to go to school because of staying out late at night with friends, and drinking in the streets. Sometimes, these drinking fests result in fights that occur between gangs of different territories. Addiction and vices are also caused by peer pressure and influence. As part of being inducted into gangs, barkadas, and peer groups, these children and youth are invited to smoke, drink alcohol, gamble, or do

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drugs by existing members. As these behaviors turn into habits, children and youth find themselves doing it as part of their regular routine.

In Barangay Arkong Bato, children and youth ranked this harm 5th, even revealing that there are children as young as five or seven years old who already smoke in their barangay. Vices like smoking, drinking and illegal drugs are seen to be more common in impoverished areas. Ugong on the other hand ranks engaging in vices as a top three (3) source of harm, usually occurring in the teenage years, while some as young as ten to twelve years old have started smoking or trying illegal substances. This behavior is usually influenced by peers or family members. Although unranked, Bagong Silangan and Sta. Lucia also mention vices as significant harms for children and youth, explaining these as an effect of peer influence, where the pressure to conform make them engage in these activities, ultimately resulting to violence among competing groups or gangs in the school and barangay.

e. Drugs – Effect of Oplan Tokhang Policy With the recommendation of President Rodrigo Duterte, the Philippine National Police launched an Anti-Illegal Drugs Campaign Plan on July 2016. Termed as the “Double Barrel”, this approach aims to “eradicate illegal drugs in the first six (6) months of the President’s term of office in 2016”10 this policy consists of two (2) projects acting simultaneously: the “Lower Barrel” or Oplan Tokhang, and the “Upper Barrel”, or the Project HVT. The Oplan Tokhang refers to the localized implementation of anti-illegal drugs operations by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in cooperation with LGUs, and Provincial, City/Municipal, or Barangay Level Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (ADAC). These efforts are concentrated on local personalities that use, abuse, and sell drugs. On the other hand, the Project HVT involves efforts from the national, regional, provincial, district, and city levels that work towards eliminating traffickers and drug syndicates that have widespread operations. Among the activities involved in the Oplan Tokhang are house visits to encourage drug users and pushers to stop their illegal drug activities and voluntarily surrender to undergo rehabilitation and counseling, seminars, information dissemination activities, and arrest – when illegal activities have proven to be continuous despite advise from local officials.

(PNP Command Memorandum Circular No. 16-2016) (DILG Memorandum Circular 2015-63) Children and youth respondents have expressed that the conduct of police operations in their barangays have caused trauma towards them, as they have witnessed neighbors and family members dying, or having been wounded as a result of encounters between the police, unidentified armed men, and suspected users or pushers. In Bagong Silangan, children and youth have observed the Oplan Tokhang to be their number one source of harm. As part of their experience, they also narrate the presence of extra-judicial killings, perpetrated by unknown, masked individuals riding vehicles without plate numbers. “We

Taken from the Investigative Directive Number 2016-12, dated July 22, 2016, Subject: Additional Policies and Guidelines in the Conduct of PNP Anti-Illegal Drugs Campaign Plan: “Double Barrel” 10

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are afraid. Why are these men dying? We believe that [drug addicts] should be rehabilitated, and not killed. The killings [prompted by the Oplan Tokhang program] should stop.” One of the youth respondents remarked. Similarly, children and youth in Corazon de Jesus relate the use of drugs to rehabilitation. According to them, “Drug users should be given a second chance in life so that they can change [for the better].” The respondents from West Crame, ranking drug use as their number one source of harm for children and youth, also believe in the same principle. In their narrative, they expressed that “After the drug operations, it is better for those caught to be sent to rehab.”

Perspectives of Adults and Youth Combined a. Barangay Arkong Bato, Valenzuela City: Family Issues, Bullying Family-related issues, more specifically the negligence of parents, continue to burden children and youth in Arkong Bato. Both the children and youth respondents as well as the adults were in agreement on ranking “parental neglect” as the number one source of harm for children and youth. Among some of the manifestations of parental neglect are when parents do not perform their roles, such as caring for children, inculcating them with the right values and morals, as well as being a role model for them. According to the youth respondents, “children need to be taught values to keep them away from engaging in vices, and to make sure they have good manners when they grow up.” However, the respondents observe that when parents have children early in their lives and are not prepared, their relationship with their child suffers. “When the parents are too young, they do not have the proper skills [to rear a child] yet”, one respondent remarked. Some of the reasons for this is poverty and unemployment, resulting to a household that is poor, unable to afford education, and characterized by violence.

On the other hand, children who were brought up by parents without much supervision become spoiled and lazy. This kind of upbringing is considered as another form of parental negligence. According to the respondents, parents must have a balance of authority and freedom. “Sometimes, parents do not want their children to experience hardships. They get what they want immediately, but this results to laziness.” One of the children explained.

This is why the right amount of attention and disciplining is important to make sure that the child grows up well with the right morals and values.

Bullying, especially in the school setting, has also been identified by youth and adults in Arkong Bato as a harm that has to be responded to. The common occurrence of bullying is in schools, where classmates themselves bully one another. The everyday endurance of violence and delinquent behavior takes a toll on them, causing children and youth to be fearful, unmotivated, and ashamed to go to school. In some cases, bullying also occurs in the barangay, especially from children and youth belonging in the informal settler communities, where poverty is rampant. Violence and crime abound, and children and youth themselves are the perpetrators of this, apart from adults. Stealing, violent behavior,

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and petty crimes are some of the activities children belonging to gangs do, and inflict among students in the school setting. As such, bullying is also a cross-cutting issue that both occur in the school setting, but may also originate in the community, as a result of adult influence on violence and crime.

b. Barangay Ugong, Valenzuela City: Family Issues, Hazards due to Factories Similar to Arkong Bato, the youth and adult respondents from Ugong consider domestic conflict, such as fighting between family members within the households, as a top source of harm to children and youth. The youth rated “domestic conflict” as the top source of harm, while the adults rated “conflict between parents and siblings” as third in rank. The root of these conflicts are issues that stem from clashes between family members, which usually end up in an exchange of foul words and physical assault – experienced or witnessed by children and youth in the household. As a result, children grow up in an environment where conflict and violence are a norm, making them susceptible to adapting these behaviors. Some youth who have experienced this become rebellious and lose respect for their parents, guardians, or the older people in their household. Some are affected emotionally and psychologically, experiencing low self-esteem and having difficulty coping with school work or dealing with their other classmates. “When children hear bad words [from their family members] at home…they become rebellious…their selfesteem becomes lower”, one of the respondents remarked.

Aside from this, both youth and adults have also agreed on health hazards as a source of harm to children and youth in the community. In particular, they cited “factories” as a main contributor of disease and pollution, with both youth and adults ranking them fourth in the ranking of harms. As of 2015, Valenzuela City houses 1,675 factories11, 24 of which are located in Barangay Ugong.12 The most controversial factory fire in 2015 which burned down the building of Kentex Manufacturing, happened in the barangay. This incident killed 74 men, as they are trapped inside the building and engulfed in flames13. This devastation proved to be traumatic to many residents in Ugong, and some of the respondents remember the event until today. Aside from fires, factories may also contribute to poor health because of the fumes the production processes emit, causing diseases not only to workers inside the factories, but to residents living nearby as well. Apart from causing harm to people, the respondents also point out that factories have an adverse impact on the environment.

Chemical leaks, fumes, and poor waste disposal may pollute water sources and the air, damaging the environment, and causing long-term effects. Aside from physical effects, polluted environments also cause psychological harm to the children. One of the respondents explained, “when the child lives in a dirty environment…their confidence lowers, because they live in a dirty home…” Living in a dirty environment means that children will have to cope with less water to clean themselves, causing not only diseases, but poor hygiene and foul odor, and making them ashamed of going to school, as they

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/692853/valenzuela-cracks-down-on-factories http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/695405/23-factories-near-kentex-unsafe 13 https://www.theguardian.com/global-development-professionals-network/2015/jul/20/the-inside-story-of-the-kentexdisaster-74-workers-died-but-no-one-is-in-prison 11

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become a target for teasing or unwanted attention. Aside from factories, the respondents also identify pollution from the increasing number of driven vehicles in the city, including traffic, to be sources of harm that causes stress towards the residents.

c.

Barangay Sta. Lucia, Quezon City: Family Issues, Sexual Abuse and Exploitation, Child Abuse, Peer Influence

For youth and adults in Barangay Sta. Lucia, family issues are a common source of harm for children and youth. The adult respondents ranked “domestic abuse” to be the top source of harm, while children and youth respondents mention the same occurrence in their sharing of harms. In narrating their experiences, the respondents shared that domestic abuse in the form of corporal punishment, witnessing of violence, and aggressive behavior affect children adversely. Communication between children and adults in the household become severed as they become distant from one another as a result of this chaotic environment. Because of this, youth and adults both share that children grow up to be resentful, choosing to anchor on their peers, rather than their family members. According to one respondent, “as children mature, they prefer the company of their friends, instead of going to school or coming home.” This occurrence leads to the next source of harm, identified by adults and youth as “peer influence”. Ranked as the fourth in the sources of harm for both youth and adults, the influence of barkada is great among children and youth, as they are longing for love and attention which they do not get from their homes.

However, these gangs and groups they join are also a breeding ground for addiction to vices such as smoking, drugs, alcohol, gambling, and risky sexual behavior.

In relation to both harms identified, sexual abuse and exploitation become apparent in the lives of children and youth as they develop in an environment where their homes do not serve the purpose of providing moral and emotional foundations for them. As such, they become exposed to pornography, sexual abuse, and exploitation. With the influence of peers and adults with ill-intent, they engage in cybersex and become victims of cyber trafficking. According to one youth, “sexual exploitation and child abuse [happens] with both adults, and youth themselves as perpetrators” this proves how complex and interrelated the issue on abuse is, as a cycle is created wherein children and youth themselves become wrongly influenced by adults and youth alike, to engage in criminal behavior. In their ranking of harms, the adult respondents considered “sexual abuse” as third in their identified sources of harm, while the youth ranked it at second. In their narration of experiences, one youth shares how news spread out of a student who became a victim of sexual exploitation. “There was a case where a student had a ‘sugar daddy’ – he promised her money in exchange for naked pictures. [She gave him her pictures] but then, the pictures [were] spread [in the internet].” One can only imagine the trauma and other detrimental psychological effects the said child would endure as a result of this exploitation. The reality shown in the case of Sta. Lucia shows how the foundation of the household, when unavailable, can trickle down into grave harms that have long-term and unforeseen effects to children and youth.

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d. Barangay Bagong Silangan, Quezon City: Family Issues, Peer Influence, Drugs and the Oplan Tokhang Policy In Barangay Bagong Silangan, an average child is able to witness conflicts at home, according to the experiences of youth and adults. In the ranking of harms, adults placed “parental conflict” at third, while the youth also recounted a similar experience of family issues. In their discussions, regular conflicts between parents, siblings, and the children themselves are abound with physical abuse and maltreatment, causing the child to feel negatively towards the household members. With certain areas in the barangay experiencing poverty, some youth shared that there are parents that incur debts because of unemployment and the inability to put food on the table. Whenever they fail to pay their debts, they become “mainitin ang ulo” or hotheaded, even towards the children in their households. These simple conflicts may seem minor, but when happening consecutively, can escalate into greater harms such as children becoming more violent and stubborn growing up. As such, children grow up more interested hanging out with their peers, barkadas, and gangs. According to one youth, “because of peer influence, children and youth become encouraged to engage in vices such as illegal drugs, smoking, and alcohol.” As a prevalent source of harm, the youth respondents ranked “peer influence” third, while the adults ranked it as second. Peer influence through membership in barkada, gangs and fraternities also leads children and youth into violence, “there are groups [that children and youth join] where they inflict violence towards one another as well as others outside the group…hazing, punching others, stabbing, stalking…children as young as twelve years old have participated in this…”

Related to peer influence is the use of drugs, occurring and originating mostly from within the groups. Similar to other barangays, some children in Bagong Silangan have started using illegal drugs at the age of ten (10) years. Because of its accessibility and cheap price (may be bought at PhP 20.00), it has become a prevalent and alarming source of harm. But more importantly, the Oplan Tokhang policy which was created to resolve this particular problem, also posed harms to children and youth as well. In fact, adults and youth alike have expressed this as their number one concern. According to the children and youth respondents, this policy has caused trauma and fear. Instead of feeling safe, they feel that the policy is threatening their safety and security. In one instance, a child respondent recalled what she witnessed one night in their barangay: “Suddenly, people were shouting…[I saw] three big men [wearing masks], they have big guns, and [people in the area] were asked to go inside a room, so that they do not see that Kuya Richard14 is being butchered like a pig.” The child respondent believes that the killing of her neighbor, Richard was a result of being branded as a drug addict, as most of the respondents have associated certain extra-judicial killings to the raid operations in the barangay. But according to the children and youth interviewed, they do not know these men, as they are not from their own community. The prevalence of suspected drug addicts and pushers in the community being killed have led the adults, as well as the children and youth to believe that these killings were a result of the policy. In conclusion, the violence being witnessed by children

14

Name of the identified person has been changed for reasons of privacy

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and youth may have lasting and permanent effects on them, and they themselves admit to its danger and harm. Once again, their right to live in their own community free from harm is challenged because of the trauma, fear and violence that they witness as part of their day-to-day living.

e. Barangay Corazon de Jesus, San Juan: Family Issues, Drugs The adults and youth in Corazon de Jesus agree that issues within the family are pressing harms that need to be addressed in the community. In fact, the adult respondents ranked family issues – in particular, “parental neglect” as their number one source of harm, while the youth ranked it second. One of the most persistent concerns for children and youth is the separation of the parents, in which families that go through this are termed as “broken”.

For the respondents, the composition of families should include the mother, father, and children, and an absence of one parent means that the child will have to live through a “broken family” that is considered as an unhealthy environment for children and youth to live in. Growing up in a household where parents are not getting along, are violent towards one another, or towards the child, is detrimental to the emotional development of the child. Moreover, one of the common responses of children and youth is to seek the love and attention that they do not get from their families elsewhere, often in their peers. “They couldn’t speak to anyone in their household because their family is broken… [the children and youth] would rather embrace the influence of their friends…” one respondent shares.

Another source of conflict within the family is miscommunication between adults and youth, as well as corporal punishment. Children witnessing adults engage in vices such as the use of illegal drugs is also harmful, as children become influenced to also do the same, exposing them to drug use at an early age.

The use of drugs at home has been known to escalate at a wider scale, with children and youth joining other groups that perform various vices, such as smoking and drinking.

Sometimes, they also commit crimes such as theft. The use of drugs has been a prevalent occurrence in Corazon de Jesus, making it a top source of harm for children and youth, with the adults ranking it 5th, and the youth ranking it 4th. According to the experiences of the respondents, it is not only through drug use that children and youth may be exploited, but also through making them a tool to commit higher crimes such as peddling drugs. Because of their vulnerability, children and youth are used as sellers, as they are less likely to be imprisoned under the Philippine laws, especially the minors. Under the law, children committing crimes below the age of criminal responsibility (15 years old and above) are exempt from criminal liability.

In the narrative of the respondents, both adults and youth shared that extra-judicial killings also abound in the barangay. One of the illustrations done by the youth during the focus group discussion, show a dead man that was killed by an unknown group, the body labelled with a sign which reads: “Adik, ‘wag tularan”, which means, “Do not emulate this drug addict”. The adults discussed that the cases of drug use and abuse which was high before, have gone down, after the Oplan Tokhang policy has been implemented. However, the fear that has been embedded in the community because of reported deaths

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surrounding drug addicts and pushers, still continues until this day, “The Oplan Tokhang is being misinterpreted… [the community] is very scared of its implementation,” shares one adult respondent. For children, rehabilitation is also an important aspect of the fight against drugs. One youth respondent expressed that, “[rehabilitation is important] to give [drug addicts] a second chance to live a different life.” Indeed, the children and youth of Corazon de Jesus, much like the other children of the previous barangays in discussion, have shown that harms within the family can also be origins of deeper harms that permeate in the community setting.

f.

Barangay West Crame, San Juan: Bullying, Drugs

Bullying and drugs are two of the common harms identified by adults and youth in Barangay West Crame. Though of different natures, the two are also interconnected. In the ranking of harms, the adults have ranked “bullying” as their top three (3) source of harm, in particular citing physical and verbal bullying in schools. The children, on the other hand, rank it second. Adult respondents describe bullying as something that originates in the home. One respondent describes how, “children and youth bring with them the problems they have at home, to school”. The neglect of the family to the children, the persistent poverty, as well as the separation of the parents are seen as harms that contribute to the child’s rebellion and unruly behavior in schools. In one account of a child respondent, he described how violent bullies and gangs become towards one another in school, “sometimes, [youth] are stabbed, shot, or even killed…there are fourth year high school students who do this as a form of revenge…but they get kicked out from school.” This violence inflicted by one youth to another is very alarming, especially as they are seen to originate from the influence of turbulent households. Finding peers and classmates that are delinquent also encourage not only bullying, but also engagement in drugs and other vices.

Given this backdrop of violence and abuse, it becomes easy for children and youth to be pressured into doing drugs and becoming addicted. As confirmed by the respondents, the adults have ranked “abuse of drugs” (among other vices such as alcohol and gambling), as the fourth most pressing harm; while the youth cite drugs as the top source of harm.

Children as young as 13-15 years old were said to already be using illegal drugs, due to influence of adults, gangs and peers.

In the field visit, it was observed by the researchers that the youth respondents were not very expressive, and were very inhibited in the duration of the interviews. There were only four (4) youth who attended, but they showed a lack of interest in the discussion. The area coordinator of Center for Disaster Preparedness (CDP) in San Juan, Ms. Lynn Agramon, validated that there is indeed a difficulty in organizing the youth of West Crame when it comes to initiatives aside from sports. According to her, the urban resilience project of CDP and Plan was the first engagement the youth had with partner institutions that are not local government-based. As a result, the youth in the barangay are difficult to organize as they are being coordinated for an activity that is unfamiliar to them. In support of the results, the Community Risk Assessment (CRA) conducted in the barangay on March 2016 with the

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representation of the youth and other vulnerable sectors, revealed that drug abuse was indeed the top source of risk in the community. Ms. Agramon shares that, “organizing the children and youth of West Crame is a work in progress…the representatives of the barangay are currently being advised on other ways to organize youth other than the existing activities they have…” Indeed, initiatives that boost capacity should be behind the existing harms that are prevalent in communities, and identifying sources of harm for children and youth are important in seeking ways to empower youth.

Moving Forward Towards Change The sources of harm presented in this study serves as a background to the conflict a child experiences in his or her day-to-day life. This section is intended to show the context and conditions of children and youth in urban settings in the Philippines. Through this discussion, duty-bearers are able to get a better grasp on what responses are apt in building environments that enable children and youth to become more resilient and safe.

Though these harms may seem immense and pervasive, it will be a mistake to define children and youth solely through the lens of their suffering. Their ability to identify the harms that haunt their household, school, and community lives with great detail and excitement, show their innate resilience and strength, which in itself is admirable.

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Framework on Localizing Child Protection Mechanisms Children and youth are considered as one of the most vulnerable sectors in the society especially in developing countries like the Philippines where poverty is rampant. As they struggle to survive, these young individuals are confronted with manifold threats that hamper their development and growth. Lack of access to basic services and education, exposure to different forms of violence and abuse, as well as absence of a nurturing home and inclusive environment, are continuously faced by these young people, which greatly threaten their wellbeing. The detrimental risks affecting the young generation are present in the diverse environments where they move and interact—households, schools, and communities. Despite the presence of legislative and structural measures to ensure child protection, the existence of multi-dimensional vulnerabilities persists and significantly inhibits children and youth from realizing their potentials as able actors in development along with the adults.

The evident exposure of the young generation to multiple sources of harm is a concrete manifestation that the country faces challenges in establishing effective and appropriate mechanisms for ensuring child protection at all levels. This poses a serious predicament especially for government authorities, from the city/ municipality down to the barangay (village), who are primarily mandated in ensuring that children and youth are safe and out of harm’s way. Such a reality surfaces the need for localizing child protection mechanisms in both urban and rural areas to guarantee a context-specific and responsive approach. To initiate the localization process, a clear framework is deemed necessary.

The framework on localizing child protection aims to guide actors, especially the dutybearers, who are engaged in working with the children and youth to effectively implement projects and programs towards securing the latter’s wellbeing. Localization of child protection mechanisms is also considered a fundamental step to enable children and youth to govern their own path to development.

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Framework on Localizing Child Protection Mechanisms

In doing the localization work, the children and youth should always be at the center of the initiative. In every step that relevant actors would undertake, the promotion of child and youth welfare is a constant priority. Ensuring their voice and participation should always be at the heart of every effort. The interest of children and youth has to be the primary reason of the localization agenda.

Localization efforts need to be carried out on the basis of child rights. The protection, fulfillment, and respect of human rights should be the main motivation of duty-bearers in doing localization. The duty-bearers, comprised mainly of government actors, are responsible in the realization of child rights that include survival, protection, development, and participation. Ensuring that child protection mechanisms are in place, especially at the local level, is critical for children and youth to enjoy their rights and explore their potentials as able members of the community.

While local and national government actors are predominantly identified as duty-bearers, actors from the household, school, community, and international arena are also accountable to children and youth. They have an important responsibility in building a safe and nurturing environment where children and youth can develop their abilities and grow.

Specifically, parents and teachers are identified as important individuals who possess great influence in shaping a child’s personality and disposition in life. This underscores the critical role that these people have to play in the localization process since they are

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relatively the closest to children and youth. The house-shaped illustration in the framework also supports the important role of family in the localization process. Although family is identified as one of the major sources of conflict leading to different harms, it is also viewed as a key actor in paving the path for children and youth to grow in a caring and sound environment. Indeed, the presence of diverse actors demonstrates that child protection is a shared responsibility. The process of localizing child protection mechanisms intersects along different levels of actors who relate with and influence children and youth in one way or another.

The principles of inclusivity and multi-stakeholder participation are essential in the localization process. An inclusive and multi-stakeholder approach should guide the dutybearers across all levels in establishing measures and structures towards child protection.

Such an approach requires the representation and active engagement of all stakeholders working in the children and youth sector. The participation of all relevant actors is vital in pooling various forms of support such as technical expertise, funding, and human resource.

Creating an environment that encourages shared commitment also enables collaboration among actors towards stronger and responsive child protection mechanisms.

Furthermore, inclusivity also provides a venue for the voice of the commonly excluded children to be recognized in planning and decision-making processes that concern their own welfare. The children and youth themselves are able to exercise participation in the process and are treated as equal partners of adults in crafting and implementing measures in response to the risks that violate the former’s rights.

The localization should aim to implement child protection mechanisms that are either preventive or responsive. The preventive mechanisms are proactive in nature and are geared towards creating an environment free from harm and abuse. This proactive approach may involve organizing, capacity building, awareness raising, advocacy campaign, and awareness raising that aim to stop harm before it actually happens. On the other hand, responsive measures attempt to resolve pre-existing issues that endanger the wellbeing of children and youth. It involves implementation of laws and policies to protect children from any forms of violence or maltreatment.

The overall goal of localizing child protection mechanisms is the achievement of resilience in all aspects namely, structural, political/institutional, social/attitudinal, economic, and environmental. The localization process aids in better law enforcement and political structures, strengthening of local capacities, and fostering of multi-stakeholder collaboration.

These factors help ensure that child protection mechanisms are implemented appropriately and effectively at all levels. Such implementation provides children and youth with an enabling environment to nurture their wellbeing and achieve resilience. An enabling environment allows young people to access basic social services and seize opportunities to develop mentally, economically, and socially through meaningful participation.

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Understanding Child Protection Children Definition of Child Protection As previously mentioned, numerous efforts have been made for the welfare of children and youth. Actors at all levels of environment surrounding children continue to work towards the development and implementation of child protection mechanisms. A major factor in the formation of these structures and programs is the understanding of the concept of child protection. Through the course of the study, the team noted the differences and commonalities in the understanding of the definition of child protection of duty-bearers and stakeholders at various levels.

The definition of child protection is expansive. Through the resources provided by UNICEF (2006), Save the Children (2011), and Plan International (2012), child protection is mainly defined as mechanisms, policies, and structures designed to uphold the rights and ensure the holistic growth and development of children and youth. However, throughout the study, the team observed that the mechanisms implemented by the three project cities—Quezon, San Juan, and Valenzuela—are reflective of their understanding of the concept of child protection.

Quezon City

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The discussion with representatives of the Quezon City Government and the selected barangays of Sta. Lucia and Bagong Silangan bore interesting results as to the city’s perception of child protection. According to the groups, child protection is primarily the fulfilment of a child’s fundamental rights, which are survival, development, participation, and protection. In line with this definition, dutybearers of the city believe that ensuring a child’s survival requires the provision of basic needs, such as food, clothing, shelter, and education.

The city has implemented various policies and measurements that echo this definition. A Local Council for the Protection of Children was established in 2006 to ensure the safety of youth in the Quezon City. An ordinance Establishing Children’s Welfare Fund for the Protection and Rehabilitation of Abandoned, Abused, and Sexually Exploited Children was also ratified in order to provide for the care of children who are victims of neglect and sexual abuse. Government officials also implemented local curfew hours prohibiting children from going out at night to deter incidents of harm. Such measures are executed through the leadership of local authorities at the city level and barangay officials and tanod at the community level.

In line with ensuring the basic rights of children, the respondents defined child protection as safety from all forms of hazards including natural calamities and manmade situations. Throughout the discussion, LGU representatives noted that children and youth are especially vulnerable during disaster situations. In line with this, the CDRRMO representative of Quezon City explained that the LGU has invested in rescue equipment that is designed to accommodate the specific needs of children. In order to lessen, if not completely eradicate, the incidence of harm against the young sector, the LGU has developed a decree establishing multipurpose evacuation centers that can serve as safe spaces for children living in communities affected by disaster. Other efforts to safeguard children include capacity-building activities and trainings in community-based disaster risk reduction and management (CBDRRM), first aid, and Basic Life Support (BLS).

Reverting to the groups’ original definition of child protection in relation to the various child rights, the respondents of Quezon City also concluded that participation of young people decision-making community activities is essential in advocating for the agenda of children. Children and youth have capacities and potentials that can be developed through leadership workshops, trainings, and the achievement of higher education.

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Aside from highlighting the importance of a child’s physical safety and survival, the focus group also defined child protection as efforts towards the emotional, intellectual, and social development of young people. This holistic view of child protection acknowledges the importance of not only providing for a their basic needs but making children feel loved and accepted in order for them to grow into well-balanced, contributing members of society. The focus group highlighted the vital role that families and carers play in moulding the child’s character and, potentially, affecting their future.

The perspectives of youth on the definition of child protection also resulted in eyeopening discussions. The youth respondents defined child protection as activities or policies designed to guarantee the safety of children from harmful circumstances and risks. Anti-bullying and anti-violence measures were cited as prominent examples of child protection mechanisms. The youth respondents also highlighted the importance of their involvement in community planning and policy-making activities in order to address the concerns of their sector.

Parents and guardians were mentioned as major actors in the implementation of child protection. To the respondents, parents were considered the most influential actors in the lives of children and youth especially since they are the primary providers of a child’s basic needs. The youth also explained that parents are the first source of guidance, love, and attention of children—factors that are essential in realizing safe, healthy, and balanced home environments for young people to fully develop.

Valenzuela City

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Adult respondents from the city of Valenzuela provided a well-rounded interpretation of the concept of child protection. According to the group of respondents, child protection refers to structures that focus on the overall wellbeing of children and youth. The discussion of child protection covers a wide array of elements from the physical protection and security of young people to the emotional, psychological, and social needs of children. The group tackled the concept of child protection by beginning at the first and most immediate environment of the child: the home.

The home environment was considered essential in securing the general well-being of children. According to the respondents, love, care, hope, and happiness are significant factors in ensuring a constructive and healthy household. Because of this, the relationship between parents and children was emphasized, and the role of parents and guardians were considered substantial determining factors in the growth of a child’s character, emotional and psychological development, and core values.

Aside from the emotional well-being of children, the group also stated that child protection also pertained to mechanisms in place that upheld the rights of children and youth. Basic access to food, security, shelter, and education were cited as essential to the health of young people. Education, in particular, became a riveting point of discussion amongst the respondents. According to the group, access to quality education and safe educational spaces for students are vital to the intellectual and social development of youth. A rich educational experience can harness the potentials of young people and shape them into powerful actors of change in the community. Safe school environments can also influence the social capacities of young people and their ability to relate to their peers and people outside the immediate social circle of family.

To echo the city’s definition of child protection, the LGU of Valenzuela implemented a number of programs that primarily focus on the welfare of out-of-school youth.

Oplan Tokbuk was developed in order to convince out-of-school youth to return to their studies. On the other hand, the Internship Program for Out-of-School Youth was initiated to provide youth without the benefit of complete formal education with the opportunity of learning directly from local officials. Through the program, out-of-school youths were provided internship positions at local offices in Valenzuela where they can learn how to do simple clerical and secretarial tasks.

The program not only gave out-of-school youth opportunities to learn new practical skills but also provides the opportunity for future employment.

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Adult respondents also defined child protection as ensuring safe surroundings for children and youth. Natural hazards, such as flooding, and man-made ones such as accidents, fire, and pollution, were cited as the most common environmental harms against children. The LGU of Valenzuela already made efforts to minimize the harms caused by these hazards through disaster risk reduction and management activities. The LGU partnered with local schools and the Bureau of Fire Protection in order to conduct fire and earthquake drills for students. In terms of capacity building, trainings in basic life support and orientations on community-based DRRM have been held to increase the awareness of young people on disaster and risk reduction.

Social risks were also mentioned during the conversation. According to the groups, child protection mechanisms should also address social problems in the household and community, such as rape, drug use and abuse, and the involvement of youth in criminal activities. Young people, especially children, are vulnerable to the aforementioned harmful situations. Others who were misled and are involved in criminal activities are called children in conflict with the law. According to the group, interventions, such as rehabilitation, are necessary in order to save children from future crime, harmful vices, and illegal activities. Local rehabilitation centers like Bahay Kalinga were established with the aim of rehabilitating young people and provide them with the chance of being upstanding members of the community.

Like the adult respondents, the young respondent of Valenzuela City provided insightful anecdotes in the youth perception of child protection. Guidance and attention were stated as important elements in ensuring the welfare of a child.

According to the youth respondent, children who were raised with proper values, deference for elders, and value for education, had an increased likelihood of developing into an upstanding adult. The respondent stated that proper values formation also decreased the likelihood of young people engaging in harmful and illegal activities and vices. Because of this, the respondent concluded that stakeholders (parents and teachers), duty bearers, and the youth themselves played important roles in the implementation of child protection at all levels of environment surrounding a child.

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San Juan City

Adults from the city and barangay levels of San Juan were quick to determine that the definition of child protection is founded on child rights. Among the provision of basic rights of children, the groups highlighted protection from harm and abuse as one of the leading indicators to child protection. Mechanisms in place to ensure the safety of children and youth were implemented from the city down to the barangay level. A curfew for minors was imposed in order to ensure that children avoid harmful activities and situations that often occur during late hours.

Education was also given importance during the discussion. Various barangay in San Juan City implemented policies that prohibit internet cafĂŠs from allowing children and youth in school uniforms from entering the said establishments especially during weekdays and class hours. This rule was imposed to discourage students from cutting classes to play computer games.

Lastly, both adults and youths of San Juan City emphasized the importance of guidance and values formation as important tenants in the rearing of children.

Parents and parental figures were dubbed vital actors in guiding children and youth to make the right decisions and develop the correct core values that they can bring with them throughout their development towards adulthood. Programs like Mother Class were implemented in order to provide expecting mothers with knowledge on how to care for the physical and emotionally needs of their children. Various youth-

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centered leadership trainings and values formation activities were also conducted to harness the skills and talents of young people towards more constructive affairs and away from potentially harmful situations.

Child Protection Mechanisms

Mechanisms to Address Harms in Quezon City Category Capacity development Activities

•

Laws and ordinances pertaining to children and Youth

•

Public awareness

•

Projects and programs

•

•

Mechanisms Orientation/seminar in the area of disaster preparedness, leadership, drug awareness, child protection (bullying, child abuse, child health)

Key Players DepEd Division Office, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Social Services Development Department, City Health Office, Barangay Council, Barangay Child Protection Council, Homeowners Association, Civil Society Organizations like CDP Disciplinary Hours/Curfew, Sangguniang Reactivation of GAD/BCPC in Brgy. Sta. Panlungsod, Barangay Lucia, establishment of multi-purpose Operation Center, evacuation centers SSDD, BCPC, Barangay Police, Barangay Council, Barangay Public Safety Officer IEC materials relating to child BCPC, CDRRMO, PLAN, protection, such as national laws, CDP children’s rights, drug-related concerns, disaster risk reduction and management Child protection Projects: Oplan BOC, DILG-QC, CIDG, Batang Hamog, Oplan Galugad, Oplan CHO, Barangay Police, Sagip Angel (Sta. Lucia) BPSO, BCPC, HOA, Child-friendly local governance audit

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Category • • •

•

Mechanisms Livelihood trainings Sports activities (Palarong Pampalakasan) Health programs (Teen health quarter, Milk Bank, First Born screening) Values formation (Effective parenting)

Key Players Office of the Vice Mayor, Church,

The efforts to advance child protection in Quezon City are strongly evident in its various activities that relate to capacity building, law enforcement, awarenessraising, and project implementation. Stakeholders from the national scale down to the household level engage in collaboration to successfully carry out such activities and keep children and youth out of harm’s way. Governments, civil society organizations, parents, teachers and the children themselves are among the primary actors in putting forward a safe and inclusive environment in the city where the young generation can thrive and develop. The shared responsibility fostered among the abovementioned actors plays a very significant role in prioritizing the agenda of child protection. The unwavering commitment manifested by these actors through partnerships opened up opportunities for children and youth to be recognized as important players in development processes.

The table above shows that Quezon City employs a combination of responsive and preventive mechanisms to address the multi-dimensional vulnerabilities that confront children and youth. Such mechanisms are designed and targeted to respond to the physical, social, economic, and emotional needs of the young generation. Addressing such needs is fundamental for children and youth to realize and enjoy their rights to survival, protection, participation, and development.

One of the most common responsive measures in Quezon City is the enforcement of an ordinance setting disciplinary hours for minors. The presence of curfew hours prevents children and youth from wandering on the streets at night which is very risky especially for girls. Apart from disciplinary hours, the execution of national laws on anti-child abuse and children in conflict with the law (CICL) is also evident at the city and barangays levels. In Barangay Sta. Lucia, local legislations to reactivate its Barangay Council on the Protection of Children (BCPC) and Gender and Development committee were passed. The presence of these groups aids in establishing community-based child protection mechanisms since locals themselves are involved as active actors. The implementation of the said legal mechanisms is done through the joint efforts of the City Council, Social Services Development Department (SSDD), barangay police, and Barangay Public Safety

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Officer. When violations are made, corresponding sanctions are applied, which helps ensure the accountability of duty-bearers.

Besides legal measures, Quezon City also has a wide range of preventive activities for child protection. Such efforts are proactive in nature which is vital in achieving sustainability and local ownership. Capacity building initiatives on disaster preparedness, leadership and management, drug awareness, values formation, livelihood, and child protection were carried out for both the children and adults through trainings and seminars. Equipping the young generation with knowledge and skills on these different areas enables them to know their rights and explore opportunities for growth. The adults, especially parents and teachers, are also oriented on their roles and responsibilities as carers and guardians of children and youth. The key actors involved in the implementation of capacity building interventions are the Department of Education (DepEd); different offices of the city government such as Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, SSDD, and Health; Barangay Council; BCPC; homeowners association (HOA); and civil society organizations.

Other than capacity building, initiatives to raise awareness are also undertaken as part of the preventive approach to child protection. Public awareness activities such as production of information, education, and communication (IEC) materials; parades; and placing of posters and tarpaulins in strategic locations are done by the city and the barangays. The awareness campaigns focus on national laws, children’s rights, disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), and drugs. The conduct of awareness raising endeavors is deemed as a fundamental avenue to increase the consciousness of children and youth and empower them to act towards securing their safety and wellbeing. Among the close allies of Quezon City in this undertaking are the BCPCs, City DRRM Office, Plan International-Philippines, and Center for Disaster Preparedness.

Another commendable effort of Quezon City to advance preventive child protection is the delivery of projects and programs which promote the welfare of children and youth. Specific projects such as Oplan Batang Hamog, Oplan Galugad, and Oplan Sagip Angel are implemented to protect abandoned children, keep them away from illegal drugs, and prevent them from suffering any forms of abuse. To assess local government’s delivery of social services for children, a child-friendly local governance audit is administered as well. To aid the economic subsistence of children and youth belonging to poverty-stricken families, livelihood trainings are initiated for the parents as well as for the out of school youth. On the other hand, the physical and emotional wellbeing of the young generation is also a priority intervention. Sports activities, health programs, and counseling are carried out for

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children and youth. Diverse actors take part in the successful implementation of these projects such as the Barangay Operation Center (BOC), Office of the Vice Mayor, SSDD, City Health Office, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-Quezon City, Barangay Police, BCPC, HOA, and church.

Indeed, the experience of Quezon City proved that the agenda of child protection is a concern of everyone. Multi-stakeholder participation is evident across all levels—national, city, barangay, and household. The city’s engagement in preventive and responsive child protection mechanisms serves as a good strategy to advance an enabling environment for the young generation. The good mixture of activities on capacity building, law enforcement, advocacy, and organizing aided in bringing together actors from various sectors to contribute and play an essential role in creating a safe and inclusive space for children and youth which is critical in resilience building.

Mechanisms to Address Harm in Valenzuela City Category Capacity development activities

Laws and ordinances pertaining to children and youth

•

• • • •

•

Public awareness

•

Projects and programs

• • •

Mechanism Trainings related to child protection, such as trainings for juvenile delinquents, VAWC seminar, child protection policy awareness orientation, and DRRM. Youth Welfare and Development Ordinance of Valenzuela Ordinance for the registration of out-of-school youth Curfew hours City ordinances prohibiting gangs and fraternities, banning the sale of liquor to minors Ordinance banning students from going to computer shops during class hours.

IEC materials related to disaster preparedness, anti-bullying, and child protection.

Bahay Kalinga Oplan Galugad Nanay Teacher

Key Player CDRRMO, CSWDO, WCPD, DepEd

Sangguniang Panlungsod, CSWDO, DepEd, BCPC, barangay tanod, barangay council

CSWDO, DepEd, BCPC

CHO, CSWDO, PNP, DepEd, BCPC, Red Cross, health

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Category

Mechanism • Oplan Tokbuk – ALS, counseling and rehabilitation for young drug addicts

Key Player workers, parents, barangay tanod, barangay council

In the City of Valenzuela, actors at all levels have made significant efforts in designing, planning, and implementing mechanisms to address and, ultimately, prevent issues that are harmful to children. The table above presents a concise enumeration of the ways in which the city government, national agencies, local authorities such as the barangay council, teachers, and parents collaborate in order to tackle existing issues in the city that can affect the development, security, and well-being of young people.

Throughout the report, the team has unearthed an overwhelming number of potential harms facing children and youth at home, school, and in their communities. In order to safeguard against these harms, stakeholders from Valenzuela have developed a diverse menu of child protection mechanisms that uphold the basic rights of children and youth—mainly survival, protection, participation, and development.

While many of these measures are responsive—in which they are developed as a response to the existing needs and concerns facing young people—local actors have also developed preventive mechanisms aimed at proactively enhancing the welfare of children.

In terms of responsive mechanisms, Valenzuela City has clearly exerted efforts in formulating ordinances and policies aimed at the protection and security of children. Local curfew hours have been implanted from the city to the barangay level to ensure that young children are not exposed to a higher risk of dangerous activity, which usually happen during late hours in the evening. A city ordinance prohibiting the formation of gangs and fraternities was also crafted due to violent activities such as gang wars and street fights that are often associated with these groups. Other prohibited behavior, such as underage drinking, is also addressed through an ordinance preventing sale of liquor and alcoholic beverages to minors.

At the city level, the Sangguniang Panlungsod and CSWDO are responsible for creating these policies while the Barangay Council on the Protection of Children (BCPC) and barangay tanod are responsible for implementing them. However, these are not the only policies that stakeholders have developed to keep children safe and off the streets.

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Many of the ordinances crafted highlight the importance of keeping the young people of Valenzuela in classrooms. Through the activities listed above, it is evident that the City of Valenzuela places a high regard on the education of its young constituents. Because of this, the Department of Education and local teachers are considered vital players in the field of child protection. An ordinance was crafted for the registration of all out-of-school youth in the city. The city also crafted a policy banning students from entering computer shops and internet cafes during school hours.

The efforts of stakeholders in Valenzuela City are not limited to ordinances and policies alone. One program focused on the education of youth is Oplan Tokbuk, which encourages out-of-school youth to develop useful skills and continue their studies through the Alternative Learning Program in collaboration with DepEd. Programs such as these enable young people, especially those in less fortunate circumstances, with avenues for learning and better opportunities for employment in the future. Another is the Nanay Teacher Parenting Program, which was developed with the aim of furthering the involvement of parents in the education of their children. Aside from enriching a child’s education, programs such as this highlight the importance of relationships between parents or guardians and their children. Parents can have a lasting influence in the physical, social, emotional, and mental health of young people, and are therefore vital actors in the discussion of child protection.

Although responsive measures are important in addressing existing harms, the city also implements preventive mechanisms as a proactive means of ensuring the safety and welfare of young people. Capacity building activities and mechanisms that focus on raising public awareness fall under this category of child protection.

With the goal of enhancing the resilience of children and the community as a whole, actors at both the city and barangay level have received trainings in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management. Child and community-friendly IEC materials like posters and pamphlets on disaster preparedness have also been designed and distributed in barangay and schools.

To raise awareness on child protection, orientations have been conducted for parents, teachers, barangay council members, and other important adult actors in the environments surrounding young people. And since children and youth are rightly considered as vital stakeholders in ensuring their own safety, the city has conducted leadership trainings for young people, especially juvenile delinquents, with the aim of developing positive values and raising their awareness toward their rights and roles in society. Aside from providing youth with sustainable, holistic, and long-term opportunities for growth, preventive mechanisms such as those

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mentioned also encourage the participation of young people in community and societal activities.

The Youth Welfare and Development Ordinance was another vital move toward enabling and empowering the youth. The ordinance was crafted with the goal of ensuring the active involvement of young people in the development, planning, and implementation phase of activities and programs related to their sector. In this manner, young people are given a safe space to voice out their concerns and an opportunity to work hand-in-hand with other stakeholders for the betterment of the young people of Valenzuela.

Although government officials of Valenzuela City are primarily mandated with the responsibility to address harms, the involvement and participation of all stakeholders—the LGU; barangay officials; international, national, and local agencies; teachers; community members; family; and the youth themselves—are vital in ensuring that these mechanisms are correctly implemented and appropriate for the context and needs of children and youth. More importantly, the involvement of all actors ensures child protection is prioritized and realized on all levels of environment surrounding young people in the hope of developing empowered, resilient, and well-balanced youth.

Mechanisms to Address Harm in San Juan City Category Capacity development activities

Laws and ordinances pertaining to children and Youth

• • • •

•

Mechanism Camp management and first aid training for youth Seminars on reproductive health (Teen sexuality and Early pregnancy) Tuberculosis Seminar Ordinances that encourage good behavior in the barangay (Prohibition of shirtless or naked people, Ordinance prohibiting drinking in the streets, etc.)

Various forms of curfew (prohibition on the use of karaoke at night from 10pm-onwards, curfew for children and youth from 10am-4am, curfew for the use of computers in internet cafes)

•

•

Key Players CDRRMO, CHO, CSWDO, BCPC, Barangay Council, CSOs PNP, Sangguniang Panlungsod, Barangay tanods, BCPC, Barangay Council, Barangay Police

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Category Public awareness Projects and programs

• • • • • • •

Mechanism IEC materials on harms of cigarette smoking, curfew Mother class, Barangay Ugnayan African Hito Urbanized Fish Pond Livelihood Project Counselling for parents, youth, and drug surrenderees GKA (Guhit Kulay at Iba pa) (Corazon de Jesus) Leadership programs

• •

Key Players CHO, BCPC PNP, CSWDO, Barangay council, BCPC, Church, parents, CSOs

In the mechanisms to address harms in San Juan, it was found out that the projects and programs present are geared more towards responding to drug-related issues and concerns, as well as providing livelihood opportunities for drug addicts who have surrendered under the Oplan Tokhang Policy. These results are validated by the data gathered under the Sources of Harms section, where it is reflected that one of the central problems for the city and barangay is their experience on drug addiction among adults and youth. As such, some of the projects and programs detailed by the respondents are: (1) the Barangay Ugnayan, a project aimed at initiating discussions among families regarding the facts about the Oplan Tokhang policy, as well as the harms of drug use and abuse; (2) second is the African Hito Urbanized Fish Pond Livelihood Project, which is aimed at providing livelihood opportunities for those who have surrendered under the Oplan Tokhang Policy; (3) and last is counselling for parents, youth, and drug addicts, created in light of the advocacy of the barangays to prevent the harmful effects of drugs. The key players in the implementation of these projects are the CDRRMO, CHO, CSWDO, BCPC, Barangay Council, and CSOs. On the other hand, ordinances that encourage good behavior in the barangay are also apparent. Some examples of these include the prohibition of shirtless or naked people, as well as ordinances prohibiting drinking in the streets. Others include the imposition of a barangay curfew for children and youth, where the barangay imposes a curfew for children and youth from 10pm to 4am. Another ordinance encouraging good behavior is the non-selling of cigarettes policy for minors, especially implemented in Corazon de Jesus, where minors (18 years old and below) are banned to purchase cigarettes from convenience stores. The key players in the implementation of these policies are the PNP, Sangguniang Panlunsod, Barangay tanods, BCPC, Barangay Council, and the Barangay Police.

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More importantly, it can also be noted that one of San Juan’s strengths lie in encouraging the participation of children and youth in arts and leadership. An example of one of these projects is the GKA program (Guhit, Kulay, At iba pa), a values formation program focused on the performing arts, which involves children from different backgrounds to come together as one and learn from each other’s experiences. In terms of leadership, it was also mentioned that San Juan partners with other organizations, such as the Red Cross, in training the youth in leadership and basic life support skills. As a holistic engagement, various activities in the field of response, camp management, and first aid are also offered for the youth, where they are taught to be the future disaster responders in their communities. Some of the key players in these projects are mostly CSOs, in partnership with the different barangays and youth organizations.

It also bears noticing that San Juan employs a multi-stakeholder partnership in implementing its policies and projects. In the table showing the mechanisms and the key players in its implementation, it can be noticed that different actors are coming from the different levels of local governance, as well as the civil society, and families. This shows that the whole community are involved in the practice of child protection.

Barriers and Enablers In striving to localize child protection, respondents from the different covered cities have identified certain barriers and enablers—factors which have impeded or facilitated their efforts to safeguard the rights of children.

Barriers Inadequate funding and poor management of funds Inadequate funding and poor management of funds is a main challenge and concern of the duty bearers in Quezon City, San Juan City, and Valenzuela City.

Both city-level and barangay-level respondents from San Juan City expressed the need for additional funding to implement more programs and projects that cater to the protection of children and youth. They shared that it is difficult to conduct capacity development and other activities without adequate and proper management of budget.

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Valenzuela City respondents also noted the same concern as a main challenge in conducting children and youth protection mechanisms. A representative from Valenzuela City stated, “The implementation of projects and programs, manpower, supplies, and coordination between offices—all of these need funding.” A representative from the Department of Education shared that despite their desire to implement programs for children and youth, there are only a few projects that are given approval due to lack of funding. Staff from the Women and Children Protection Desk—the first responders to concerns regarding the safety of children— chimed in, noting that limited budget hinders the hiring of more investigators who can address children and youth protection cases. Likewise, travel of investigators to households of victims of violence and abuse requires supplies, computers, and transportation fare, and this cannot be done without the appropriate funds.

Respondents from the barangay echoed this concern. They pointed out that the core of the issues on funding is poor budget management. In addition, there are conflicts on the agenda that decision-making bodies prioritize, which affects the fund allotment for projects.

Respondents from both city-level and barangay-level from Quezon City echoed this concern. They mentioned that the large city population, as well as the wide scope of child protection mechanisms, contributes to the difficulty in carrying out children and youth protection activities. Because of this, the city government usually taps other stakeholders to provide assistance. On the level of the barangays, the barangay councils usually have different priorities, which leaves the children and youth protection agenda—as well as those especially those that concern the most vulnerable sectors such as persons with disabilities, indigenous people, and the LGBT community—sometimes neglected.

Weak implementation mechanism of laws and policies National and local bodies have ratified laws supporting children and youth protection. However, respondents from the covered cities share that it is a considerable challenge to implement these legislations.

Respondents from San Juan City asserted that proper implementation are important aspects of making sure that the policies and projects for the children are effective. However, duty-bearers and adults in the city lack knowledge on the laws, policies, and programs on children and youth protection, as they also lack seminars and trainings regarding this matter. This impedes the process of formulating solutions to address the harms that children and youth experience in their community.

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In Quezon City, respondents from the city and barangay level shared that strict implementation of laws is essential. However, the lack of knowledge of duty bearers on these laws contributes to the weak implementation of policies. For instance, improper handling of children and youth protection cases endangers the lives of these youngsters. They suggested that the barangay council and BCPC should undergo equipping on child protection legislation to be able to effectively implement the said laws. Undergoing of monitoring procedures would also ensure that these duty-bearers are able to successfully carry out their tasks.

Valenzuela City respondents stated that the weak implementation in their city can be rooted to the mistrust that community members feel with their public officials’ implementation of laws, as the latter are viewed to lack the knowledge and awareness regarding the rights of children. This causes some victims of child abuse, bullying, and violence to refrain from approaching the said authorities. The respondents from the barangays also mentioned that the absence of a standard system of procedures negatively impacts the implementation of children and youth protection policies. For instance, while mechanisms targeting children and youth concerns may be discussed during meetings, these are not documented and are thus left as verbal agreements.

Limited programs on values formation Concerns related to the family have been noted as the top issue in children and youth protection in the covered cities. As such, it is important that the harms brought on by these concerns are addressed. However, the limited programs on values formation in communities exacerbates the issues experienced by children and serves as a barrier for duty-bearers and other stakeholders in carrying out protection strategies.

For respondents in Valenzuela City, the lack of values formation highly contributes to the engagement of children and youth in harmful endeavors. According to the respondents, children and youth develop negative traits such as disrespect for elders, laziness, deceitfulness, and violence. These eventually lead them to engage in unfavorable behavior such as underage drinking, smoking, and use of illegal substances.

Issues in values formation also contribute to the commitment of crimes by children and youth in San Juan City, with some offenders being below 15 years old.

Respondents in Quezon City, experiencing the same concerns, therefore highlight the importance of values inculcation in the family. While some value seminar programs have already been carried out in the communities, continuous programs need to be developed that have a wide-scale reach.

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Limited participation of children and youth and other vulnerable sectors in the community Children and youth, as well as other vulnerable sectors, can serve as change agents in their communities. However, respondents from the covered cities have noted that the younger generation and vulnerable sectors have had limited participation in the activities in their locale. They have also conveyed that they have limited participation in community development processes such as planning and decisionmaking. This inhibits them from raising their specific needs and concerns, which could be addressed and which could be considered to promote their welfare.

Approaches to children and youth protection tend to be reactive and welfarebased, and short-term and project-based The researchers have observed that while Quezon City, Valenzuela City, and San Juan City are able to implement a variety of projects, programs, and services, these have some limitations. For instance, some capacity building and awareness-raising activities tend to be short term and project-based, which constrains the sustainability of the impacts of these programs.

Likewise, the projects, programs, and services tend be reactive in aspect and welfare-based. While these initiatives are able to cater to the survival and protection rights of children and youth, it may limit the scope and range in tackling other children and youth rights such as developmental and participation rights, which are equally essential.

Enablers Political will and commitment of the duty bearers One of the main facilitating factors for the localization of children and youth protection is the political will and commitment of duty-bearers for this agenda.

These could be exhibited through the city and barangay LGU’s prioritization of children and youth by way of including children and youth agenda in local plans, development of programs and policies benefitting children and youth, and conduct of consultations with children and youth.

Likewise, duty-bearers with staunch political will and commitment can properly act on issues regarding management of funds of children and youth protection programs and projects, with the proper monitoring and evaluation procedures. In

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addition, they can carry out strong implementation of the children and youth laws and policies in their community, thereby transforming the processes and strategies taken by their locality.

As San Juan City respondents have remarked, political will is important since it is the driver of the improvement in implementation and better coordination.

Functional BCPC as instrumental in localizing child protection mechanisms The presence of a functional BCPC has been observed to be instrumental in terms of localizing children and youth protection mechanisms. It is through the BCPC that national laws on anti-child abuse and child in conflict with the law (CICL) are localized to enable the protection of children and youth from violence and cruelty.

It is important therefore to have BCPCs whose structure and functions are not only on paper but are truly actualized.

Respondents in Quezon City suggest the proper selection of BCPC—considering the background, knowledge, and skills of candidates, and assessing their capacities— as this is essential to determine who can actually carry out their job well. This step should be followed by awareness raising activities, capacity building on legal mechanisms and processes, and other pertinent trainings for the BCPCs to competently perform their roles.

Conduct of capacity building activities in children and youth protection and values formation orientation Aside from equipping BCPCs, it is important that community members undergo capacity building activities in terms of children and youth protection as well as values formation seminars as these have been found to facilitate the localization of children and youth protection mechanisms.

In Quezon City, the youth of Barangay Bagong Silangan highlighted how essential values formation seminars and parenting seminars are as these help parents to learn about proper discipline and good conduct to inculcate to their children. They stated that parents serve as role models for their offspring, and hence responsible parenting will help in curtailing the engagement of children and youth in harmful behavior. Teachers and other adult authorities in the community are also recommended to undergo such seminars since they are also responsible in the character formation of the young people in their community.

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The respondents of Valenzuela state that members of the barangay council need capacity building activities on children and youth protection since according to them, “The initiatives should start with us so we can teach every street [in the barangay] about child protection�. They believe that it is their responsibility as duty-bearers to advocate child protection to their constituents.

The respondents of San Juan City concur with the abovementioned actions, and they urge for the conduct of trainings and seminars for duty-bearers, such as barangay officials, staff of Women and Child Protection Desk (WCPD), barangay staff, and peace officers. Capacity building of these duty-bearers on children and youth protection mechanisms and laws pertaining to children and youth will enable them to formulate programs and policies to combat the harms experienced by children and youth in their community.

Multi-sectoral engagement in planning and decision-making processes A multi-sectoral approach to the localization of children and youth protection has been found to be critical by all covered communities.

In Valenzuela City, respondents have noted the importance of working together and complementation of LGU offices for the successful implementation of programs in children and youth protection. They stated that interlinking efforts between the offices is needed to ensure the sustainability of child-centered programs.

Similarly, the respondents from San Juan City stated that the participation of the whole community, both concerning adults and children, are important indicators for the success of children and youth protection policies. They also suggested nongovernment organizations as partners who can provide support for additional capacity development, seminars, and trainings in children and youth protection.

Respondents in Quezon City affirmed that multi-sectoral consultation and planning is critical in addressing children and youth concerns holistically. Barangay Sta. Lucia in Quezon City, for instance, has enabled the participation of young individuals from the LGBT community and persons with disabilities sector, which they found to be vital in dealing with the specific needs and concerns of these vulnerable sectors.

Other respondents suggested the formation of technical working groups with adults and youth participants at the barangay level, which can tackle projects, programs, and activities (PPAs) for children and youth relating to health, education, social services, and others.

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Likewise, respondents in Quezon City found community-based organizations to be essential. Homeowners associations (HOAs), for example, are able to provide assistance to youth, especially out of school youth, through the organization of livelihood activities such as catering, bead-making, and pillow-making. Aside from HOAs, the said respondents believe that the private sector can also be tapped to provide assistance in the children and youth protection agenda.

Strong children and youth participation and organization Strong youth participation and organization is another facilitator for the localization of children and youth protection mechanisms. The right to participate is a critical right of children and youth, as according to Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, “Children have the right to participate in decision-making processes that may be relevant in their lives and to influence decisions taken in their regard—within the family, the school or the community�.

Youth respondents from Quezon City recommended that they be given the platform to participate in community activities such as those relating to environment, sports, education, and spirituality. These endeavors can hone their knowledge, skills, and attitude to enable them to become good citizens. In the same vein, these activities can serve as the venue through which they can exercise their freedom of expression, and they can experience a sense of belongingness and equal treatment in their community. Likewise, they can be involved in the creation of better projects and policies focused on the safeguarding of their rights and the promotion of their welfare.

Summing up To sum up, in the localization of child protection mechanisms, factors which serve as barriers in protecting children and youth must be addressed by all concerned to avoid further harms that may be experienced by the younger generation, while those factors which facilitate actions and initiatives must continually be fostered by both duty-bearers and rights-holders. In this way, the road to children and youth protection will be a much clearer path.

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Conclusion and Recommendation In order for child and youth protection mechanisms to truly be localized, several actions are recommended, based on the feedback of both stakeholders and dutybearers, and the overall analysis of the researchers. Grounded on the framework for localization of child protection that has been proposed in this manuscript, it is essential that actions to move forward are holistic and embedded in the various layers in society.

Firstly, child protection mechanisms must be deeply rooted in the family structure.

As family issues have been found to be the top harm identified by the respondents in their cities, it is essential to focus on providing children and youth with a positive family environment that nurtures and cultivates their rights. It is within the family that children first learn the values that would influence their future interactions.

Values orientation programs, which can be carried out by the local government or other allied sectors, must be conducted in the family level for parents and family members to learn and imbibe proper values, and eventually change the harmful norms and behaviors that are adopted in the family structure. In this way, children and youth learn to shy away from harmful vices, and when they grow up and become parents themselves, they can continue to foster a positive family environment.

Likewise, to address the factors that contribute to family issues such as negligence and communication gap, parent counseling and orientations are suggested to be carried out. Through these orientations, parents—especially young parents—will be able to cultivate the proper knowledge and skills to raise their children. These can also be the means through which parents can interact with one another and organize activities and programs for their children.

Aside from values orientation and parenting programs within the family structure, other forms of activities could be conducted in the community. This could be done through recreational events such as sports to be able to discourage children and youth from engaging in harmful behavior. Also, leadership seminars may be conducted to inspire children and youth to participate and lead community activities. Joining these kinds of activities can help them develop good values and strong morals.

On the level of duty-bearers and stakeholders, it is recommended to consider more strategic, long-term, sustainable, and preventive child and youth protection mechanisms. A notable barrier in localizing child and youth protection is the shortterm duration or project-basis of some interventions in the cities as these kinds of interventions would not render long-lasting effects. Having mechanisms which are

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continuous and directed towards the harms experienced by children and youth in their locality would therefore be more ideal, as these would have more enduring impacts on the target communities. Preventive mechanisms would also curtail future harms that may be experienced by children, although reactive mechanisms are still essential for ongoing forms of harm. These kinds of mechanisms could involve capacity building workshops and awareness-raising activities which can be done on a regular basis and cascaded on the level of communities, puroks, and families.

One critical avenue through which child protection can be sustained is through the mainstreaming of children and youth protection in the local government agenda.

Programs which promote the rights and welfare of children and youth can be incorporated in the plans and policies of the local government. In this way, child protection will be a priority of the local government, and child protection programs and projects will receive proper budget allocation. In the same vein, mechanisms would go beyond the terms of government seats, and would endure even upon changing of political parties, since these mechanisms would be embedded in the governmental system.

These programs should be complemented by strong monitoring and evaluation process wherein significant changes brought on by the mechanisms as well as the issues and challenges encountered are documented, towards better future implementation.

Notwithstanding the longevity of mechanisms and even with mutable projects or shifting political colors, it is important that duty-bearers possess the capacity, political will, and commitment to children and youth protection to ensure sustainability and proper implementation of projects, programs and activities.

Heads of local government units who possess these characteristics will be able to prioritize essential agenda for their community, such as children and youth protection, and will thus be more proactive in the implementation of such endeavors.

Of course, child protection does not merely rely on government agencies and local government units; a multi-stakeholder approach to child protection is critical. As such, building, enhancing, and sustaining partnership, collaboration, and coordination at all levels would be essential in carrying out the various programs for the rights and welfare of children and youth. Government agencies and units, civil society organizations, private sector, the academe, and vulnerable sectors must work hand-in-hand as this kind of partnership would facilitate access to funding, technical assistance, and material support for programs and projects

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dedicated to children and youth protection. Likewise, collaboration would foster knowledge exchange and learning from one another, and this would serve as an opportunity for promotion of good practices in child protection which could be replicated and sustained for further interventions for children and youth.

Lastly, children and youth are active participants in their own development and are agents of change; thus, empowering them and recognizing their right to participate in the welfare of their community is a vital step towards localizing child protection.

Children and youth themselves must be able to have the platform to become advocates for their own rights and welfare, as well as the space to plan, decide, and work towards their own programs and projects. Communities should foster children and youth champions at various levels who can participate in planning and decision-making activities for their community as they know first-hand the harms that they experience, and can therefore propose possible solutions to prevent and respond to these harms.

In sum, while child protection has come a long way in the country through policies and programs that have been put in place in recent years, the process of localization still requires much effort from duty-bearers and stakeholders. Building a holistic, enabling environment to advance child and youth protection in communities can be done through rooting interventions in the family structure, developing long-term and sustainable projects and programs, mainstreaming of child and youth protection in the local government agenda, ensuring political commitment of duty-bearers, fostering a multi-stakeholder approach, and empowering children and youth to participate in their community. Certainly, through holistic and unremitting efforts of all levels towards the localization children and youth protection mechanisms, safe, resilient, and sustainable futures for children and youth and their communities can be attained.

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RESEARCH TOOLS Tool for Adults Duration: Two (2) hours I. Short Background of the Research • Present a summary of the research design using a powerpoint presentation or other visual aids (e.g. manila paper) • Ask the participants if they have questions and clarifications II. Introduction (15min) • Introduce the research team • Ask the participants to introduce themselves: name and role in the barangay • Divide the groups into male and female/per organization/designation • Discuss the consent form III. What are the main sources of harm to children and youth? (25min) • Ask the participants to identify different sources of harm to children and youth in the following environment: household, school, barangay • Tell the participants to write their responses on color coded meta cards. In identifying the sources of harm, the participants should consider not only natural hazards, but also the everyday risks affecting children and youth • Ask the participants to assess the gravity of the risks during peace time and disaster situations • Request the participants to organize their responses in the following matrix: Question What practices and beliefs are evident in your locality that threaten the welfare of children and youth?

Who causes the risks to children and youth?

What are the impacts of the risks to children and youth?

Household

School

Barangay

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• • •

Ask a representative from each group to report their output Allot time for Q&A Synthesis the key points raised during the discussion

IV. Accounts in dealing with Child Protection (25min) • Ask the participants to get the top 5 common risks from the previous activity and put them on a separate Manila Paper • After identifying the top 5 risks, ask them to explain why they selected those risks.

• Upon hearing their justification, ask the participants if their community has mechanisms and strategies that help in protecting children and youth from different risks. The strategies could be a policy, a capacity building activity, a public awareness campaign or a specific project.

• Request them to write their responses on meta cards and organize them using the matrix below: Child Protection Mechanisms and Strategies Laws/ Policies

• • • •

Capacity building (e.g. training)

Public Awareness (Poster, pamphlets, IEC materials)

Project (e.g. Oplan Batang Hamog, Curfew, etc.)

After listing down the mechanisms and strategies, ask the participants to identify the stakeholders involved in the implementation Ask a representative from each group to report their output Allot time for Q&A Synthesis the key points raised during the discussion

V. Child Protection Definition (15min) • Ask the participants to verbally share their understanding of child protection • The facilitator writes down the responses on a manila paper • Synthesis the key points raised during the discussion VI. Challenges and Recommendations that impede Child Protection (30min) • Ask the participants to identify challenges that affect the implementation of child protection strategies and mechanism • Following the challenges, ask the participants to share corresponding recommendations for the challenges identified • Ask the participants to organize their responses on the matrix below:

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Challenges

• • •

Recommendations

Ask a representative from each group to report their output Allot time for Q&A Synthesis the key points raised during the discussion

Tool for Children and Youth Duration: 2.5 hours I. Short Background of the Research • Present a summary of the research design using a powerpoint presentation or other visual aids (e.g. manila paper) • Ask the participants if they have questions and clarifications II. Introduction – “Name Game” (15min) • Introduce the research team • Ask the participants to introduce themselves using the “Name Game” • Divide the groups into boys and girls • Discuss the consent form III. What are the main sources of harm to children and youth? (25min) • Ask the participants to identify different sources of harm to children and youth in the following environment: household, school, barangay • Tell the participants to write their responses on color coded meta cards. In identifying the sources of harm, the participants should consider not only natural hazards, but also the everyday risks affecting children and youth • Request the participants to organize their responses in the following matrix: Question What practices and beliefs are evident in your locality that threaten the welfare of children and youth?

Household

School

Barangay

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• • • •

After filling out the matrix, make them rank their responses (Top 5) Ask a representative from each group to report their output Allot time for Q&A Synthesis the key points raised during the discussion

IV. Illustrating Harms & Providing Solutions • Get the top 5 answers and put them in a separate matrix. Matrix should look like this: Risks Rank 1: Bullying

Solutions Meta card 1

Illustration #1 Rank 2: Rank 3: Rank 4: Rank 5:

• •

• •

Meta card 2

Ask each group to illustrate each harm/problem Other details the children should include in the illustration of harms: ü Who causes the risks to children and youth? ü What are the impacts of the risks to children and youth?

Allow them to provide a solution for each problem by writing it down on a meta card and placing it beside the illustration Discussion and processing

V. Child Protection Definition • All should form one big circle • Give everyone meta cards and pens • The children will be asked the following questions: ü What comes to your mind when you hear the words child protection? ü Who can help you in implementing child protection? ü In what ways can child protection be realized and promoted?

• The children should answer by raising one meta card where they will write one word that comes to their mind when thinking about the questions.

• They should give their answer as fast as they can • Duplication can happen • Discussion and processing

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VI. Challenges and Recommendations – Picture Frame Game • Children will be grouped into 3: household, school, barangay • Each group will act out a challenge in child protection based on their assigned context (household, school, barangay) • They will freeze once the facilitator says it • Processing – discussion of picture frames • They will all form a circle and the facilitator will stay in the middle. The groupmates should stay together.

• The facilitator will write the mentioned challenges on each Manila Paper based on their context (household, school, barangay) • Manila Papers should look like this: Household Situation (Facilitator will put a metacard here summarizing the situation portrayed by the household group)

•

•

Recommendations (Each group/person from the group will take turns writing their own recommendation on this portion, all answers must be exhausted)

Each group/person from the group will take turns writing their own recommendation on the solution/recommendation portion so that all answers can be exhausted – they can take their turn by moving around the circle.

Discussion and Processing

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Quezon City

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The map of Quezon City showing the research sites Source: Wikimedia, 2017

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I.

Overview of Local Context

A.

Geography and Demography

Quezon City is one of the sixteen (16) cities comprising the National Capital Region (NCR).

The city is bounded by San Juan and Mandaluyong to the south, by Manila to the southwest, and by Marikina and Pasig City to the southeast. It is bordered by San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan to the north and by Rodriguez and San Mateo in the province of Rizal in the east (The Local Government of Quezon City, 2015).

With a land area of 16, 112.58 hectares, the metropolis is subdivided into 6 districts covering 142 barangays15. Quezon City is also known as the most populous city in the Philippines with an estimated population of 2, 936, 116 comprising 682, 818 households (2015 Census).

The table below shows a breakdown of population per age group and sector: Age group/ sector

Male

Child Population 0 to 11 months 30,542 (infants) 0 to 6 years old 211, 715 1 to 4 152, 711 School Age Population 3 to 4 (day care) 61,084 5 (pre-school) 29,502 6 to 11 (elementary) 175,129 12 to 15 (secondary) 114,044 16 to 21 (tertiary) 171,237 Persons with 15,350 disabilities Elderly/ Senior 104,887 Citizens Source: The Local Government of Quezon City, 2015

Female

Total

27,956

58,498

194,454 139,780

406,168 233,993

55,912 27,337 164,236 113,114 187,295 14,636

116,997 56,839 339,364 227,158 358,532 29,986

154,365

259,252

For this study, the research team covered two (2) barangays namely Bagong Silangan and Santa Lucia. These barangays were selected in consideration of the following criteria: (1) community with a well-performing Barangay Council on the Protection of Children (BCPC)16 and (2) community with a low performing BCPC. The research team did consultation with

15

Barangay is the smallest administrative division in the Philippines and is the native Filipino term

for a village, district or ward.

16

Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) was created under Presidential Decree

603 as an organization committed to providing services for the protection of children’s welfare.

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the city government particularly the Social Services Development Department (SSDD) in the selection process.

Bagong Silangan Barangay Bagong Silangan is one of the communities that comprise the second district of Quezon City. It covers 7 purok (zone) where an estimated population of 73, 612 lives (2010 Census). In terms of topography, the barangay is divided into high and low areas. Bagong Silangan lies directly on the West Valley Fault. The eastern part of the barangay lies at the west bank of Marikina River. Given its geographical characteristics, Bagong Silangan is highly vulnerable to the risks of earthquakes and floods.

Bagong Silangan is identified as the most densely populated barangay in the second district. Along with rapid urbanization in Metro Manila, the barangay’s population has continuously escalated which resulted in a significant growth of informal settler families living in riverbanks, creek sides, and private and public lands.

Sta. Lucia The community of Sta. Lucia is covered by Novaliches district in Quezon City. Barangay Sta. Lucia has a land area of 329, 245 sq. m. with a population of 24,349 individuals (2010 Census) inhabiting its different zones. The barangay is bordered by Fairview subdivision on the east,

by Chiudian subdivision on the west. Toward north, Sta. Lucia is bounded by Tullahan River and on the south by rice fields.

During wet season, the barangay suffers from flood and other related risks that threaten the survival of its people.

B.

Socio-Economic Profile

Quezon City is situated at the heart of Metro Manila making it a hub of business and trade, education, transportation, and government offices. Given its strategic location, the city is home to various commercial centers, industries, banks and financial institutions, information

and

technology

(IT)

parks,

television

broadcast

companies,

and

telecommunication companies. Among the areas where these establishments thrive include Cubao, Libis, Tomas Morato, Timog Avenue, and Novaliches. According to the 2015 database of the city government, there are around 66, 644 businesses registered in the entire city.

In terms of education, the city is also home to well-known learning institutions such as University of the Philippines and Ateneo de Manila University. Research institutes, business and management schools, and medical schools also flourish in the area. The table below shows the number of educational institutions in the whole Quezon City:

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Educational institution Daycare centers Public elementary schools Public high schools Public schools offering vocational and technical courses Private schools offering pre-school, elementary, and high school College and universities including vocational and technical education Source: The Local Government of Quezon City, 2015

Number 294 95 46 4 417 98

In terms of health services, Quezon City has health centers, hospitals, and clinics that cater to the health and medical-related needs of the people. When it comes to sanitation, 97.50% of households have access to safe water while 98.50% of households have access to sanitary toilets (The Local Government of Quezon City, 2015).

Given the vast opportunities that Quezon City has to offer, it encouraged the constant influx of people from varying backgrounds and cultures in the metropolis. This scenario significantly contributes to the incessant increase of its populace. Due to urbanization and escalating population, poverty is still an evident reality on the ground. Competition in resources and opportunities is apparent and this aggravates the condition of the already poor households.

Bagong Silangan Bagong Silangan has commercial establishments spread out in different areas, particularly near schools and transportation terminals. These establishments are mostly small-scale enterprises, which include eateries, general merchandise shops, computer shops, and rice retailing stories. The barangay has its own elementary and secondary schools for learning and development needs of its people. For health-related services, the locals can avail such from the Barangay Health Center and private clinics.

Sta. Lucia Barangay Sta. Lucia is located close to factories and commercial establishments that provide employment opportunities to its inhabitants. Some of the locals also work for public and private offices. In terms of education, the barangay has secondary and elementary schools where children and youth learn and are molded to become good citizens of their community. Health services and facilities such as health center, hospital, and clinics are also present in the barangay to respond to the medical needs of the populace.

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C.

Overview of DRRM and CCA Projects

The Quezon City Government has manifested strong commitment in implementing various disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) and climate change adaptation (CCA) programs. The efforts of the city to undertake such engagements are geared toward the achievement of resilience and sustainable development, especially of the most vulnerable groups, which include children and youth.

To advance vulnerability reduction and resilience-building, manifold DRRM activities were carried out by the Quezon City Government such as organizing of the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (QCDRRMC); creation of the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (QCDRRMO); engineering intervention such as road and water ways retaining wall project; hazard, vulnerability, and risk assessment (HVRA); crafting of DRRM and contingency plans; disaster mitigation in housing project; formation of task force West Valley Fault; installation of markers and signage on areas transected by the West Valley Fault; organizing of the Barangay Emergency Response Team (BERT); trainings on earthquake preparedness; crafting of Early Warning System (EWS); communitybased disaster risk reduction and management (CBDRRM) initiatives with various sectors including children and youth; and construction of evacuation centers.

On the other hand, the city has also embarked on CCA-related engagements which include the Eco2 cities initiative to promote an eco-friendly development approach; ecological solid waste management; carbon financing capacity building program for the mitigation of greenhouse gases; rapid assessment framework project to assess the city in their energy efficiency performance; updating of comprehensive land use plan; and passage of ordinance on green building and green roof.

To ensure the success of the abovementioned initiatives, the city government works closely with various actors from national agencies, fellow local governments, civil society organizations, private sector, donor institutions, and local communities.

From the existing activities of the city on resilience building, it is evident that they still need to improve on their DRR and CCA measures to make it more responsive to “everyday risks� which involve not only natural hazards, but also social, economic, and cultural risks with a focus on the welfare of children and youth.

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Bagong Silangan Bagong Silangan is involved in various activities covering the four (4) thematic areas of DRRM namely preparedness, prevention and mitigation, emergency response, as well as, rehabilitation and recovery.

The Barangay Council, in partnership with Red Cross, CSOs, and faith-based organizations, has conducted trainings and awareness campaign activities on disaster preparedness that involved children and youth participation. For prevention and mitigation measures, the barangay carried out mangrove planting, urban farming, proper waste management, and rainwater harvesting where young people were involved either as leaders or participants.

During emergencies, relief distribution is conducted to assist the affected families with assistance from the city government and other public and private donors. To aid in the process of recovery, counseling and health awareness sessions were organized by the barangay through the help of the city government, schools, and GABRIELA, an organization advocating for women’s right and participation.

Sta. Lucia The community of Sta. Lucia is actively engaged in implementing DRRM measures to promote security and resilience. Similar to Bagong Silangan, it has activities on the four thematic areas of DRRM. Through the initiative of the Barangay Council, disaster preparedness trainings for children with disabilities and fathers were conducted. The school has also organized earthquake drills to enhance the capacity of students to respond to earthquake risks. A school DRRM council was also established with the involvement of different public schools. To prevent the risk of flooding, the barangay council, with the active participation of children and youth, initiated tree planting and clean-up drive. For emergency response, the barangay is involved in relief distribution and search and rescue operations. On the other hand, for rehabilitation, relocation efforts were also undertaken to move at-risk families to safer grounds.

II. Stakeholders Various individuals and groups at the city and barangay levels were targeted as respondents of the study. A good mixture of respondents portraying the role of dutybearers and rights-holders in the context of child protection was identified by the research team in consultation with Plan International-Philippines and partner local government units (LGUs). The research team considered various factors in identifying respondents for the key informant interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) such as age, gender, role in the community and/or city, sector they belong to, and involvement in children and youth-related projects and programs. Furthermore, the research ensured that the

92

composition of respondents represents the different environments where children and youth interact and develop. Participants to the data gathering activities included actors from the household, school, community, and local government. Moreover, the research team made sure that discussions with adults and youth were conducted separately.

At the city level, a total of 9 representatives from various departments were involved in the FGD. From the said figure, 3 are males while 6 are females. The table below presents a summary of city-level respondents: City Quezon City

Method

Tools

Department

Focus Group Discussion

• Main Sources of Harm to Children and Youth + Ranking • Accounts in Dealing with Child Protection • Child Protection Definition • Barriers and Challenges that impede Child Protection • Recommendations to improve Child Protection Mechanisms

Department of Interior and Local GovernmentQuezon City Barangay Operations Center (BOC) City Health Office (CHO) City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) Office of City Councilor Ramon Medalla Social Services Development Department (SSDD) Total

Sex F M 1 1

1

0

1

0

1

1

1

1

1

0

6

3

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On the other hand at the barangay level, the research team engaged a total of 64 participants. The table below presents a summary of barangay-level respondents: Barangay Bagong Silangan

Method Focus Group Discussion

Tools • Main Sources of Harm to Children and Youth • Illustrating Harms and Providing • Child Protection Definition • Picture Frame Game: Challenges and Recommendations

Organization Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) Women and Children’s Protection Desk Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) Barangay Peace and Security Officers (BPSO) Youth Organizations School teachers (including SPED) Parents Persons with disabilities School children, Out-of-school children, Children-withdisabilities High school/Youth, Out-of-school youth, Youthwithdisabilities, LGBT Youth Home Owners Organizations (HOAs) Faith-based organizations Total

F 3

Sex M 0

0

0

8

1

1

0

0

1

0

0

1 2

0 0

0

0

7

8

2

0

0

0

2 4

10

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Barangay Sta. Lucia

Method Focus Group Discussion

Tools

Organization

• Main Sources of Harm to Children and Youth • Illustrating Harms and Providing • Child Protection Definition • Picture Frame Game: Challenges and Recommendations

Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) BDRRMC Women and Children’s Desk Barangay Health Workers Barangay Peace and Security Officers Youth Organizations School teachers (including SPED) Parents Persons with disabilities School children, Out-of-school children, Children-withdisabilities High school/Youth, Out-of-school youth, Youthwith-disabilities Home Owners Organizations (HOAs) Faith-based organizations Women’s organization IP organization Total

Sex F M 2

0

1

0

1

1

0

1 1

0 1

4

4

1

0

2

0

1 13

1 8

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III. Main Sources of Harm to Children and Youth A.

CITY

Household • Verbal and physical abuse from parents • Child neglect • Absentee parent • Lack of parenting skill • Break up of parents • Deprivation from basic needs • Violence portrayed by media • Exposure to pornography • Absence of family evacuation and communications plan • Injuries or death caused by hazards

School • Bullying • Verbal and physical abuse from teachers and fellow students • Sexual abuse • Drug abuse • Negative peer influence • Fraternity • Illiteracy • Poverty • Lack of familiarity with disaster control group of the school • Lack of adequate emergency routes or exit in school buildings

• • • • •

• •

•

•

Barangay Child labor Child trafficking Child prostitution Street crimes Exposure to risky behaviors and habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol, drug abuse, and indiscriminate sex Absence of barangay policies on child protection Lack of barangay ordinance on regulating the ridership and protecting children’s safety in public transportation Lack of barangay ordinance on regulating the sale of firecrackers to children Living in vulnerable areas to natural hazards such as flooding

The table above shows that the children and youth of Quezon City are faced with diverse risks affecting their resilience and state of wellbeing. These risks significantly influence their development in the environment where they move, grow, and interact. Specifically, this study has focused on identifying and examining sources of harm at the household, school, and barangay levels.

The findings revealed that parents play a fundamental role in safeguarding children’s welfare. Participants from the city-level FGD agreed that parents, among other stakeholders, are the primary actors in molding their children’s future. When parents lack adequate parenting skills and fail to perform their role as guardians, the children become more vulnerable to other risks from the school and larger community. Parental absence and break-up often lead to children being easily influenced to engage in vices (e.g. smoking, drinking alcohol, and use of illegal drugs); they dropout from school; and join fraternities and gangs to feel acceptance and belongingness. Other children also get deprived of basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter since their absentee parents do not provide for them. Furthermore, parental abuse, in verbal and physical forms, is also

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mentioned as a significant source of harm to children and youth. The ill treatment of parents to their children often result in low self-esteem and anti-social behavior.

Respondents have also shared that exposure to broadcast and print media at home also poses a threat to the wellbeing of young individuals. Without the guidance of parents, violent scenes and pornographic materials from the television and Internet undesirably influence a child’s conduct. The threat of hazards and disasters was also emphasized as a contributing factor to the vulnerability of children at home. Specifically, children belonging to families living in high-risk areas such as near the river and informal settlements become more susceptible to injuries and death brought about by typhoon, flooding, and other related hazards. Furthermore, the absence of family preparedness measures such as crafting of communication and evacuation plans aggravates their already at-risk condition.

On the other hand, in schools, bullying was identified as the most prominent source of harm to children. According to the SSDD representative, “Sa school, marami kaming reported cases na victims of physical and sexual abuse by their

own classmates. Usually circle of friends inflict these types of abuse. Kasi may mabuting kaibigan at masamang kaibigan.”

“In the schools, there are many reported cases of victims of physical and sexual abuse by their own classmates. Usually circle of friends inflict these types of abuse. There are good friends and bad friends.”

The children experience physical and verbal harm from fellow students that affect their self-esteem and ability to socialize with others. The victims of bullying prefer to be alone which often leads to him or her becoming ostracized. Apart from students, teachers are also recognized as persons who perpetrate abuse to children inhibiting their learning and development opportunities.

Another source of risk in the school environment is negative peer influence. The presence of friends who exhibit bad demeanor puts children in a precarious condition. In some cases, groups such as fraternities and gangs thrive in secondary schools, which are instrumental in swaying children to risky and morally wrong actions. More often than not, children are encouraged to engage in vices such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and use of illegal drugs.

As what the respondents have conveyed, the poverty-stricken condition of children, especially in urban areas, is also a major contributor to their vulnerability to risks. Because of the continuous entry of people in the metropolis, congestion and tight competition over scare resources become prevalent. The poor economic condition in the cities leaves children unable to access education that limits their opportunities to develop. Illiteracy becomes evident making it difficult for them to come out from the vicious cycle of poverty and improve their standard of living.

The absence of disaster preparedness mechanisms in schools was also believed as a significant source of harm to children. Specifically, the lack of adequate emergency routes

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in school buildings and ignorance of students on the school disaster control group were cited as contributing to the vulnerability of young individuals to various natural and human-induced hazards.

In the larger community, the children and youth are also confronted with detrimental concerns that affect their welfare. Due to extreme poverty, the respondents have shared that children become victims of trafficking. Instead of going to school, children are engaged in prostitution and economic activities that are harmful to them. The poor implementation of ordinances relating to child protection (i.e. safety from commuting and use of firecrackers) was also a risk mentioned by the respondents from the city. Without this set of legal protection, the welfare of children and youth is constantly jeopardized.

Furthermore, the threat of vices mentioned above and other dangerous behaviors is also greater in the barangay since children are exposed to a more diverse community of people with varying backgrounds. Natural hazards are likewise highlighted as a peril to the wellbeing of children and youth. Overcrowding and improper waste disposal in the urban areas escalate the propensity of flooding and other related risks.

The wide-array of sources of harm presented above demonstrate that interlocking physical, socio-cultural, economic, and political factors influence a child’s personality and development. This gamut of factors can either positively or undesirably affect a child’s wellbeing as he or she grows. From the mentioned aspects, it is evident that children and youth are exposed to “everyday risks” that infringe their rights to protection, development, and survival. Children are constantly exposed to everyday risks as they relate with actors at home, school, and in the barangay. Along with poverty, the proliferation of these risks aggravates the worsening vulnerability of children living in urban areas.

The negligence of duty bearers (i.e. local government) and caregivers (i.e. parent and guardian) is a significant barrier to the realization of child protection. The absence of guidance from parents has a huge impact on a child’s outlook making him or her vulnerable to peer influence and other prohibited actions in search of belongingness. On the other hand, the poor performance of government at varying levels in implementing legal mechanisms to promote child protection is also a predicament that confronts children.

Lack of government priority to children’s agenda in planning, decision-making, and policymaking processes exposes the young generation into a more at-risk state compromising their resilience.

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B.

BARANGAY

Bagong Silangan The following table summarizes the main sources of harm to children and youth in Barangay Bagong Silangan based on the narratives of the adult participants:

Adults • • • •

House Use of illegal drugs Irresponsible parenting Parental conflict Children do not listen to the advice of their parents

School • Cutting class due to computer games • Membership to fraternities • Bullying • Stubbornness of children and youth

Barangay • Peer influence which encourages children and youth to engage in vices (barkada/fraternity) • Children and youth do not comply with the local ordinances (i.e. disciplinary hours)

Ranking of harms 1.

2.

3.

4.

Drugs “Barkada”/ Fraternity Parental Conflict Not following ordinances or laws / hard-headedness and not following authorities (teachers) 5. Cutting classes The adults of Barangay Bagong Silangan have ranked use of illegal drugs as the topmost source of harm to children. According to them, such a practice is commonly brought about by the influence of barkada (group of friends), which was ranked second among the sources of risk. The barkada, mostly comprised of out-of-school youth, youth from the Muslim community and San Mateo, and fraternities, encourages the young individuals to engage in vices that include the selling and use of illegal drugs. According to one of the BCPC representatives, children as young as 10 years old are already into illegal drugs. In fact, a secondary student was even caught selling marijuana for as low as Php 20.00 inside the school premises.

Parental conflict was identified as the third most significant threat to children’s wellbeing.

When parents get into fights, the children become exposed to physical and verbal abuse.

Since parents are perceived as role models, the young individuals tend to emulate their actions, regardless if these actions are good or bad. This kind of scenario often leads to

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irresponsible parenting where children are not guided properly. Furthermore, in an environment where conflict thrives, children become violent and stubborn.

Following parental conflict, non-compliance to local ordinances (i.e. curfew hours) for the protection of children was identified as a fundamental source of harm. Again, due to peer influence, children and youth do not follow the curfew hours and are encouraged to stay late outside. The disobedience of children puts them in a more dangerous situation since they become vulnerable to other unlawful acts such as rape, holdup, stealing, and gang war.

Cutting classes was ranked fifth among the sources of harm to young individuals. Due to computer games, children are encouraged to skip classes and play instead. This adversely affects their performance and participation in school. Another risk that was raised by the adult respondents in the school environment is bullying. Children experience verbal and physical harm from their classmates that oftentimes lead to poor self-esteem and discouragement from going to school.

From the sharing among the adult respondents, it was a common sentiment that these sources of harm pose a significant barrier to children in achieving a bright future. A barangay health worker said that, “Napapariwara at nalilihis ang kanilang landas dahil sa mga gawing ito.”

“They are led astray because of these activities”

Youth The following table summarizes the main sources of harm to children and youth in Barangay Bagong Silangan based on the narratives of the youth participants: Group GIRLS

• • • • •

House Fighting of parents Misunderstandings Disagreements among siblings Constant anger of parents Hot-headedness

• • •

•

School Bullying Jealousy Sucking-up to authorities (“Paninipsip”) Cutting classes

Barangay • Putting the self before the barangay • Abuse of power • Work without help

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Group BOYS

• • • • • •

LGBT

• • • • • •

House Mistreatment of parents Violent behavior of gang Disagreements among siblings Consistently being scolded Disobedience Being a troublemaker with elders Hot-headedness Hurting siblings Disobeying parents Being lazy No skill Not paying debts

School Cutting classes Constant fighting Disrespecting teachers Littering everywhere Vandalism Disobeying teachers

Barangay • Lack of “bayanihan17” spirit and disagreeing with the barangay

• Teacher's having favoritism • Fighting • Mistreatment of teachers • Causing mischief

• Riots in the barangay • Lack of “bayanihan” spirit • Absence of understanding among people • Oplan Tokhang (War against drugs) • Children dying because of gun fights

• • • • • •

Ranking of harms 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Many people are affected and harmed by Oplan Tokhang Bullying Influence of barkada/ friends Lack of communication in the family Absence of unity/ bayanihan

Given the strong anti-drug campaign of President Rodrigo Duterte through his Oplan Tokhang18 Program, the youth respondents have identified this as the main source of harm to children. Considering the rampant extra-judicial killings happening at present, they fear that the said program will continue to threaten the right to life not only of the youth, but also of the whole barangay population. The ones who perpetrated the killings were unknown in the barangay—they invaded the house of the victims and asked other people to leave. They wore masks and the cars they used had no plates to hide their identity. The respondents have shared that some of the victims of the killings are innocent and are not taking or peddling drugs. One of the respondents conveyed that,

Bayanihan is a Filipino word referring to a spirit of cooperation and collective action.

Oplan Tokhang is national law enforcement project launched as part of the Philippine National Police’s campaign against illegal drugs under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte in 2016.

17

18

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“We are scared. We are traumatized. The killings prompted by President Duterte’s anti-drug program are not right.”

Peer influence is a significant factor that encourages the young generation to use drugs.

According to a male respondent, the use of illegal drugs happens at home and friends are usually the culprits. Apart from drugs, the presence of barkada also entices children and youth to join fraternities, which engage them into fights and violence. Children as young as 12 years old join gangs which bring them into chaotic situations such as rumbles and knife fights.

Bullying was also considered to be one of the top sources of risk to children especially in the school environment. Again, friends have a role to play in making children engage in bullying activities. Because of peer pressure, children bully their fellow children to gain acceptance. Victims of bullying loose confidence, opt to stop schooling, or worse, commit suicide. Although there are policies on anti-bullying, the implementation is weak and this helps in proliferating the act. A youth member of the LGBT group shared that, “If we are being bullied by girls, and we complain to the BSDO, they don’t believe us because they say we are still boys and that we are stronger than them.”

The occurrence of the abovementioned risks is aggravated by the absence of communication within the family. Children usually turn to friends when parents do not provide an enabling environment for them to express themselves. When children do not feel loved and experience abandonment, there is a high chance for them to get involved in delinquent activities that endanger their wellbeing. Mistreatment and inability of parents to provide guidance often lead children to a bad future.

Furthermore, the youth respondents have mentioned that lack of unity in the barangay is a great risk to children’s welfare. When community people do not cooperate in the implementation of projects and programs not only for children but also for the entire barangay, sustainability of such initiatives become a problem.

Sta. Lucia The following table summarizes the main sources of harm to children and youth in Barangay Sta. Lucia based on the narratives of the adult participants: Adults • •

Household Lack of parental care Fights between parents/siblings

• • • • •

School Child abuse Sexual abuse Bullying Drugs Child trafficking

• • •

Barangay Peer influence No open places for playing Less/non-appreciation to children's rights

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•

• • •

Household No communication between parents and children Household chores Domestic violence Child labor – selling salt newspaper boy, selling pork and "bentelog19"

• • •

School School facilities are not fit for children Bad influence of friends Cyberbullying

•

• •

Barangay Lack of community cooperation in barangay programs Basketball court – making bets, fights, and conflict Addicted to computer games/does not participate in household chores

Ranking of harms 1. Domestic Violence 2. Child Abuse 3. Sexual abuse 4. Bullying | Drugs | Negative group of peers 5. Child labor Adult respondents from Barangay Sta. Lucia have emphasized the absence of a nurturing environment at home due to domestic violence as a primary source of harm to children.

This claim was supported by the stories of BCPC representatives where women and children are the usual victims of the said harm because of power dynamics, culture, and financial resources. As shared, domestic violence is manifested in various forms of abuse, namely verbal, economic, physical, and sexual. Children and youth belonging to families that commit such violence often feel neglected. In worst cases, psychological problems also arise among children that could later on affect them. The children themselves could become abusers as they grow old.

Child abuse was also a top risk identified by the respondents. Similar to domestic violence, this source of harm comes in many forms, such as physical, psychological, and sexual.

Usually, parents and guardians are the perpetrators of this harm. The absence of emotional stability and child-rearing skills of parents often leads to child neglect and abandonment.

Apart from physical injuries, children who are victims of abuse suffer from developmental and behavioral problems. Most of the abused children develop insecurities and low selfesteem affecting their socialization and relationship with others.

One of the prevalent forms of child abuse in the barangay is sexual in nature. In particular, such abuse is done through cybersex where online platforms are used to sexually exploit children. With the advent of technology, cybersex has become rampant in the community involving elementary and secondary students. According to a female respondent, the parents themselves are engaged in the spread of this risk acting as pimps. Social media

19

Bentelog is a Filipino street food made of fried rice with egg topping.

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applications are commonly used as a mechanism of abuse. Cybersex happens between adult and youth, and youth to fellow youth.

Bullying was again identified as a threat to the wellbeing of children and youth in the school setting. Classmates and school personnel (e.g. utility workers) are the ones identified to carry out such type of harm. Victims of physical and verbal bullying often develop trauma leading to social withdrawal and desire to stop schooling. As shared by several respondents, students with disabilities and those who belong to indigenous groups (i.e.

Manobo) have a higher chance of being bullied. Furthermore, because of the advanced technology, bullying is also committed through online channels such as Facebook and other social media accounts. Bashing and posting of tactless comments to children and youth are done ruthlessly. At present, such act is called cyber bullying.

The use of illegal drugs as a result of peer influence was also raised as a problem affecting the children of Sta. Lucia. When children join fraternities or gangs, they are persuaded to try such to fit in the group. Respondents have mentioned that outsiders usually supply drugs in the community. Marijuana is the most common type of drug used by children as young as 11 years old. The spread of illegal drugs has led to the rise in the number of child offenders who commit petty crimes such as stealing.

From the discussion, the respondents have also considered child labor as a risk to children.

Instead of going to school, children are engaged in economic activities such as selling newspapers, pandesal, street food (e.g. bentelog), and salt. Because of poverty, the young individuals are hindered from learning and are left with no choice but to help their parents earn a living for survival.

The intertwining relationship of the aforesaid risks shows the complexity of issues that confront the wellbeing of children and youth. One risk may result in several threats which further put the young generation in a vulnerable state. The respondents have mentioned that the risks to children are already present during regular period and threats are further magnified during emergencies such as disaster events.

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Youth • • • • •

• • • •

Household Child abuse Sexual abuse Having irresponsible parents Lack of attention from parents Absence of open communication between parents and children Lack of respect for every family member Rebellion of children Alcoholic drinks Cyber sex

• • • •

• • • • • • •

School Bullying Cheating Lack of school resources Absentee teachers, nagging of teachers screaming at students School rules are not applied properly Gambling Pornography Sexting Bad influence of friends Smoking Cutting classes

• • • • • • •

• • • • • • •

Barangay Vehicular accidents Bullying Gang war Crimes such as murder, rape, kidnapping Hold up Youth lack voice in the community Vices such as smoking, drinking, liquor, using illegal drugs and gambling, Pornography Fraternity/sorority Human trafficking Stealing Drug syndicates Child labor Cyberbullying

Ranking of harms 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Vices such as drugs/drinking/liquor/smoking Sexual abuse/sexting/child pornography Child abuse Gang War- bad influence, Lack of family hours, rebellion Lack of voice

The sources of harm to children identified by the youth respondents are mostly similar to those identified by the adults. Use of illegal drugs, drinking alcohol, smoking, and gambling are among the common vices that the young individuals engage in. The children indulge in such vices because of peer influence, especially when they belong to gangs. Others also commit to these actions due to lack of parental guidance and open communication in the family. The involvement of children and youth to gangs also threatens their security since they get involved in fights. Usually, gang wars transpire among teens and high school students.

The children of Sta. Lucia are also at-risk to sexual abuse as shared by the youth. In particular, sexting is the common mechanism used for such abuse to transpire. Sexting involves sending, forwarding, and receiving sexual messages and photos through mobile phones. According to one of the respondents, children as young as 12 years old are already involved in sexting. Furthermore, such act is linked to child pornography and to the increasing number of teenage pregnancy cases.

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Given the traditional mindset of some adults, the children and youth are not given the opportunity to actively participate in planning and decision-making processes at various levels-home, school, and barangay. The young individuals are treated as passive beneficiaries which inhibit them from exercising their freedom of expression. Adults mainly lead the planning and identification of solutions on their behalf thus making them invisible in the process.

IV. Mechanisms to Address Harm The following table summarizes the mechanisms to address harm based on the narratives of the adult participants at the city level: A.

CITY Laws

• Ordinance on the establishment of multi-purpose evacuation centers • Ordinance on disciplinary hours (curfew)

Capacity building (e.g. training)

• Disaster trainings of OSY • Conduct of drill • Conduct of ICS training: 10 children aged 13 to 15 years old; school initiative (DepEd Division

Public Information Materials (Poster, pamphlets, IEC materials)

Projects (e.g. Oplan Batang Hamog, Curfew, etc.)

• Operation Batang Hamog20 • Presence of womenand child- friendly spaces in evacuation centers • Earthquake preparedness • Care sessions during emergencies • Child-friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA) • Mobile Library • Family counseling • 1st born screening • Milk Bank • Teen Health quarter established • Prevention of epidemics in disaster sites

Operation Batang Hamog (Children of the Dew) is a program that aims to reduce the number of children who live on the streets and live a hand-to-mouth existence.

20

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To put forward the welfare of children and youth, the Quezon City government has undertaken measures geared toward child protection that cover legal mechanisms, capacity building, awareness raising, and advocacy.

In terms of legislations, the city has crafted numerous ordinances that promote children’s welfare. In 2014, an ordinance setting disciplinary hours for minors from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM was ratified. When a violation is made, the parents and guardians are penalized. The local government has also passed an ordinance enacting Quezon City Children’s Code of 2012 to update its landmark legislation on children and youth entitled Quezon City Child and Youth Welfare Ordinance which took effect in 1997. This move was done in adherence to the provisions of various international and national policies concerning children.

Furthermore, from the previous decade, the Quezon City Council (Sangguniang Panlungsod) has enacted manifold ordinances that recognize children’s rights to survival, development, and protection and these include the following: (1) Special Children’s Ordinance (2009); (2) Ordinance Providing Support for all day care centers and public schools in Quezon City with complete textbooks, audio-visual equipment, school facilities (2006); (3) Ordinance prescribing for the mandatory posting of notice and information regarding child protection on establishments unsafe to the development and welfare of minors (2007); (4) Ordinance on the Quezon City Alternative Learning Program (2006); (5) Ordinance establishing the Local Council for the Protection of Children to implement RA 9344 (2006); (6) Ordinance declaring all day care centers in Quezon City as schools inclusive of children with special needs (2005); (7) Ordinance creating a Barangay Child Protection Council in every Barangay (2005); and (8)Ordinance Establishing Children’s Welfare Fund for the Protection and Rehabilitation of Abandoned, Abused and Sexually Exploited Children (2005).

The continuous rise of disaster events in recent years has also prompted the government to pass a decree establishing multi-purpose evacuation centers that would serve as shelter to children living in highly vulnerable areas.

On the other hand, in terms of capacity building, the respondents have shared that the local government through the QCDRRMO has conducted trainings for children and youth’s safety and these are primarily related to disaster preparedness. Among these trainings include disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) for out of school youth (OSY); earthquake and flood drills; and Incident Command System (ICS) for children aged 13 to 15 years old in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) Division Office.

The city government also implements specific projects and programs addressing child protection issues. One of these is the Operation Batang Hamog. Through the leadership of the BOC, abandoned children, as well as, drug users who wander on the streets at late night are picked up and brought to the Barangay Hall and are sometimes referred to the SSDD. The Barangay Council and police stations serve as partners of the BOC in the said operation.

During emergencies, the SSDD also plays a valuable role in securing child protection. Since it is the focal department in charge of camp management, it ensures the presence of

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women- and child- friendly spaces in the evacuation centers. The SSDD also sets rules such as no drinking and gambling inside the evacuation centers and police officers are designated to strictly implement them. Care sessions are also conducted during emergencies to appease the trauma and distress of disaster survivors. Family counseling is also carried out to provide an avenue for parents and other family members to unload their emotional burden.

The DILG Quezon City Office also conducts Child-friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA) to evaluate the performance of local government in delivering social services for the promotion of children’s welfare. In 2016, the city government was conferred with the Seal of Child-friendly Local Governance award by the Regional Committee for the Welfare of Children (RCWC).

As mentioned by the representative from CHO, the city government also invests in mechanisms that promote the health of children and youth. For the welfare of infants, firstborn screening and establishment of milk bank were undertaken. Campaigns to prevent epidemics in disaster sites were also done through awareness raising. Furthermore, the formation of teen health quarter was also carried out for young individuals to have access on information pertaining to sexual reproductive health and medical services.

B.

BARANGAY

Barangay Bagong Silangan The following table summarizes the mechanisms to address harm to children and youth in Barangay Bagong Silangan based on the narratives of the adult participants: Laws • Disciplinary hours for minors (10 pm-5 am) • Anti-bullying • RA 7610 (Anti-child abuse) • RA 9344 (CICL or Children in Conflict with the Law)

Capacity building • Vocational trainings through TESDA • Drug awareness seminar • Leadership training • Youth awareness program • Values formation • Anti-child abuse seminar

Public Information Materials • Public announcement • Poster about drugs • Pamphlets (seldom) • “Say No to Drugs” signage

Projects • Alternative Learning System (ALS) • Sports activities: Palarong Pampalakasan • Livelihood project • Oplan Tokhang • Operation Galugad • Community Health Services

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Respondents from Barangay Bagong Silangan have shared their current initiatives on promoting children and youth welfare. The community, through the leadership of its Barangay Council, has implemented various national and city legislations concerning children and youth. Through the BCPC, national laws on anti-child abuse and children in conflict with the law (CICL) are localized to protect children from cruelty and violence. The BPSO also actively leads the implementation of disciplinary hours for minors. Anti-bullying policies are also in place to prevent children from being harassed and terrorized.

To support the young individuals in their economic needs, vocational trainings are implemented in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). They cover those who are 18 years old and above. Apart from TESDA initiated trainings, the HOA also organizes and provides trainings particularly to those who could not join TESDA yet. Among their livelihood trainings include bead-making and throw pillowmaking. These products are sold to the Barangay Captain. Apart from these trainings, seminars on leadership were also organized for the youth of Barangay Bagong Silangan.

Such seminars provided a venue for children to develop their confidence and socialization skills.

The Barangay Council is also involved in drug awareness campaign for children and youth.

Prior to the implementation of Oplan Tokhang, there were already initiatives for the young generation to be veered away from using illegal drugs. The barangay has put up signage and posters and conducted seminar on drug awareness. Currently, upon the implementation of Oplan Tokhang, a stricter mechanism was established to prevent the spread of drugs in the community. Under this scheme, children and youth surrender to the Barangay Council and undergo drug test. With the support of the city government, rehabilitation program is recommended for those who are extremely addicted to drugs.

Others are allowed to go home, but are required to do weekly reporting.

Barangay Bagong Silangan is also strong in raising the public’s awareness on anti-violence against women and children through its BCPC, composed of five members. They have printed tarpaulins that present a summary of different national laws on anti-violence against women and children which the barangay adheres to. The matrix below shows the said laws:

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Laws on anti-violence against women • R.A. 7877: Anti-Sexual Harassment Act • R.A. 8353: Anti-Rape Law • R.A. 8505: Rape Victim Assistance and Protection Act • R.A. 9262: Anti-Violence against Women and their Children Act • R.A. 9298: Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act

Laws on anti-violence against children • R.A. 7610: Special Protection of Children against all kinds of abuse, exploitation and discrimination Act • R.A. 9231: Elimination of the worst form of Child Labor Act • R.A. 9344: Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2016 • R.A. 9208: Anti-trafficking of personchild, recruitment and transportation within or across national boarders

Furthermore, the school and HOA have also initiated seminars on anti-child abuse and violence against women and children (VAWC) to inform the parents on the rights of children and how to properly treat them. Moreover, the school is also instrumental in conducting values formation and counseling sessions for the children to be guide properly.

To further ensure the security of children and youth, the BPSO actively implements Operation Galugad, particularly during disciplinary hours. With this initiative, children are being searched inside internet cafes and in other places during class hours and late nights.

To address the education-related needs of the youth, the Alternative Learning System of DepEd is also offered in the barangay. This learning mechanism provides an alternative or substitute to those who do not have or cannot access formal education in schools.

For camaraderie to be fostered among children and youth, Palarong Pampalakasan is done occasionally. This sports festival is deemed as an effective way to develop sportsmanship among children and youth aside from making them physically fit.

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Barangay Sta. Lucia The following table summarizes the mechanisms to address harm to children and youth in Barangay Sta. Lucia based on the narratives of the adult participants: Laws, Policies • Disciplinary hour for minors • Anti-bullying • Domestic Violence Resolution • Barangay ordinance on re-activation of Gender and Development (GAD)/BCPC office for the protection of women and children • Resolution on person with disabilities rights and concern • Active advocacy of the following laws: RA 9280, 7610, 9262, 9344

• •

• • •

•

Capacity Building/Training Anti-bullying seminar Effective parenting/values formation Child and sexual abuse seminar Family development session (4Ps) Quarterly training on empowering parents and communities against sexual abuse Anti-drugs training/seminar

• • • •

Public Information Materials Tarpaulins Public address (PA) Anti-drugs parade Distribution of IEC materials such as leaflets in schools and barangays

Projects • Gift giving for children and youth • Oplan Sagip Angel • Livelihood trainings • Teen Chat prevent sexual abuse • Batang Listo • Health center

The community of Sta. Lucia is an active advocate of child protection as reflected in their various interventions. Similar to Barangay Bagong Silangan, it strongly implements disciplinary hours for minors through the BPSO. To advance the welfare of women and children, the Barangay Council has enacted an anti-domestic violence resolution and ordinance on the re-activation of GAD/ BCPC office. Priority to persons with disabilities was also evident in the barangay through its initiative to craft a resolution outlining their rights and concerns. Furthermore, the barangay adheres to national laws concerning children such as the one protecting children against all kinds of abuse and juvenile justice.

Since bullying is a major threat to children, the barangay also made an effort to advance anti-bullying campaign through conducting seminars. They have several partners in this engagement which include the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation (HLAF), Office of Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, and Crime Lab. Seminar on effective parenting and values formation was also done in a year through the support of Vice Mayor Belmonte and close coordination with the church and NGOs.

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Through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the barangay has received an orientation on child protection and anti-child abuse as part of the Family Development Session (FDS).

Furthermore, the Barangay Council, through the BCPC, holds quarterly trainings on empowering parents and communities against sexual abuse. Moreover, through the teen health quarter initiative of the city, the young individuals are provided with knowledge on how to prevent sexual abuse.

As a staunch advocate of child protection, Barangay Sta. Lucia has also manifested commitment to Oplan Sagip Angel, a campaign against child abuse launched by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

In response to drug-related problems in the barangay, the Barangay Council has also initiated public awareness activities such as anti-drugs seminar, parade, and distribution of flyers. Tarpaulins displaying messages against drugs are also put up in strategic locations.

Provision of livelihood trainings was also done in Barangay Sta. Lucia to assist the youth, especially the ones who are out of school, in their economic needs. According to an adult respondent, “Ang livelihood trainings ay nakakatulong upang magkaroon ng paglilibangan o mabigyan ng trabaho ang mga batang laging naka tambay.”

“Livelihood training help in giving opportunities for productivity to children and youth who are not in school.”

The presence of this initiative is also deemed as a measure to keep away the children from engaging in jobs that are harmful in nature.

Children and youth belonging to indigent families are also benefitted by the gift-giving project of the barangay in partnership with SM Fairview. To ensure that the children are healthy and fit, the 4PS program requires children aged 0 to 5 years old to visit the Barangay Health Center for a mandatory medical check-up.

V. Definition of Child Protection A.

CITY

From the responses of the representatives from Quezon City Government, they have defined child protection as the fulfillment of children’s fundamental rights, namely survival, development, participation, and protection.

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For children’s survival, provision of basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter, and education is deemed important. The presence of a healthy environment where children can grow is also among the factors necessary for children to thrive.

The city level respondents have also equated child protection to the safety of children from any forms of hazard. The CDRRMO representative mentioned that it is important to have rescue equipment designed for the specific needs of children. Trainings on communitybased disaster risk reduction and management (CBDRRM), first aid, and Basic Life Support (BLS) are believed to be useful for their protection. The presence of laws and ordinances on anti-child abuse and exploitation is also beneficial.

According to most of the respondents, child protection is realized when children are loved and accepted. It is important for the children to have a family that will provide guidance and care.

The realization of developmental and participation rights was also raised as an essential factor toward child protection. Children and youth have to be given with opportunities that will help them harness their potentials. Access to information and freedom of expression are necessary for the young individuals to claim their rights and become agents of change in their respective communities.

B.

BARANGAY

Bagong Silangan Adults The adults of Barangay Bagong Silangan have underscored that child protection is a broad concept and encompasses various aspects—physical, economic, social, cultural, and political that influence a child’s development.

Similar to the definition of the city level respondents, the realization of children’s basic rights is linked to child protection. The adult respondents particularly highlighted the importance of education and participation for children to really realize their potentials.

Adults have also mentioned the strict implementation of legislations concerning children and youth at various levels as a valuable mechanism to prevent harm. Given that many in the barangay are not that knowledgeable on policies relating to child protection, having a system in place for its effective implementation is necessary.

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Youth The youth respondents from Barangay Bagong Silangan have defined child protection as actions and strategies implemented in the community to keep children away from harm and risks. Specifically, they emphasized the role of parents in ensuring a child’s safety and development.

Sta. Lucia Adults The adult respondents from Barangay Sta. Lucia have equated child protection to the effective and efficient delivery of services to children and youth. Addressing the physical, social, economic, and health needs of children is imperative for them to grow as productive and able members of the community.

Ensuring the safety of children is also viewed as a condition that needs to be fulfilled to realize child protection. The presence of different laws that promote the welfare of children is regarded as an enabling mechanism for young individuals to fully enjoy their rights.

Youth From the perspective of the youth respondents, child protection is linked to the absence of violence and harm where children can move safely. They further defined child protection as duty bearers and caregivers giving priority to children. In initiating development-related processes such as planning and policy-making, the concerns and issues of children should be considered always.

Similar to the response from the youth of Barangay Bagong Silangan, parents are again identified as primary actors in securing the welfare of children. Based on the sharing among the youth, the role of parents as provider of basic needs (e.g. food) and guidance was highlighted. The provision of such needs will aid in achieving a healthy and well-rounded life for children.

VI. Challenges A.

CITY

Limited Funding The Quezon City Government is confronted with challenges that affect the implementation of their projects and programs relating to child protection. The respondents have shared

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that limited funding is one of the primary challenges that confront the concerned departments such as the SSDD, BOC and CHO. Given the wide scope of child protection, as well as the big number of the city population, it is inevitable for the city government to not address all the problems in relation to child protection. According to the SSDD representative, “Ang usual na problema namin ay walang pondo. For example, pag may victim of abuse kami. If we need to tap medical resources, we tap hospitals. Gumagawa kami ng case study report para sa chief ng hospital para malibre ang bata. “

Due to budget constraint, the city government has to seek help from other stakeholders to respond to priority concerns depending on the urgency.

Inadequate capacity of BCPCs One of the DILG QC representatives mentioned that although BCPCs are already organized in all the 142 barangays, many of them still lack adequate capacity to perform the tasks expected of them. The BCPCs are not properly equipped with knowledge and skills needed for them to protect and advance the welfare of children. The BCPCs are under the supervision and guidance of the BOC, a department in the city government. According to the BOC representative, “Sa observation namin, halos lahat ng BCPC sa mga barangay ay nag-co-comply sa

requirements para lang mag-comply. Ang problema namin ay paano tutulungan ang mga

barangay (BCPC) para magamit nila yung funds nang tama at makatulong sa nangangailangan.”

“In our observation, almost all of the BCPC members of the barangays comply with the requirements. The problem is how to help them (BCPC) use the funds correctly to help those in need.”

When BOC asks the BCPCs to submit their accomplishment report, there is an evident disparity between the said document and their drafted plan. Given this issue, the BOC initiated visits in the barangays to assist them. Some are responsive to their help, but unfortunately, others are not willing to learn.

Weak implementation of child protection laws Given the limited capacity of BCPCs, awareness on national and city level legislations concerning child protection is missing. The absence of knowledge on such legal mechanisms has adverse impact on the execution of child protection policies especially at the local level. As a result, cases are not properly handled and this further endangers the

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children. From the sharing of the BOC, there were times that when they refer children to the SSDD, the process stops there. They do not know where the child would go.

B.

BARANGAY

Bagong Silangan Funding constraint The respondents from Barangay Bagong Silangan have identified funding constraint as a significant challenge that prevents them from implementing child protection initiatives.

Due to other priorities of the Barangay Council, interventions that advance the welfare of children are sometimes neglected. A respondent said that, “We have a Gender and Development (GAD) focal person and planning is made for the budget. But the priorities are not just set to those we expected. “

Limited capacity of BCPC The limited knowledge and skills of the barangay in child protection was also deemed as a barrier to children’s wellbeing and development. According to the respondents, many of the barangay residents are not aware of the laws and policies relating to children and youth. This being the case, violation of child rights at home, in school and in the barangay is rampant.

Sta. Lucia Funding Constraint Similar to the concerns shared by the city government and Barangay Bagong Silangan, budgetary constraint is a major hindrance for them to actively engage in child protection projects and programs, especially those that concern the most vulnerable sectors such as persons with disabilities, indigenous people, and the LGBT community.

Limited participation of vulnerable groups The participation of the most vulnerable sectors, both adults and children, mentioned above in community development processes such as planning and decision-making is also lacking. This prevents them from raising their specific needs that would aid in the promotion of their welfare.

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VII. Recommendations A.

CITY

In order for the Quezon City government to strengthen its role as a duty-bearer and advocate of children’s rights, the respondents shared recommendations as follows:

Building Partnerships To address the issue on resource limitation, the Quezon City Government has recommended tapping other organizations for resources. Linkage with other individuals and groups from the private sector, national agencies, and donor community is deemed as an opportunity to mobilize resources that will be of help to the government. Partnership to various sectors provides an opportunity to access funding, technical assistance, and material support that will aid in the implementation of various programs for the welfare of children and youth.

The SSDD representative has shared that adequate resources will help in keeping a systematic and updated database for children and youth. On the other hand, the respondent from the CHO also emphasized that additional funding would help in providing enough allowance for the breastfeeding group and in the establishment of one (1) teen health quarter per district.

Furthermore, building linkages with other stakeholders was also deemed as a valuable opportunity to promote the efforts and good practices of Quezon City in upholding child protection. The respondents believed that such promotion is helpful in replicating and sustaining the interventions of the city government for the young generation.

Strengthening of BCPCs Considering that many of the BCPC structure and functions are only in paper, all the respondents have agreed that bolstering the capacity of BCPCs in the entire city should be a priority of the city government. Implementation of capacity building activities such as trainings, study visits, and awareness raising is considered a fundamental step to support the BCPCs in performing their role as agents of child protection. Equipping them with knowledge and skills on various legal mechanisms and processes to handle different cases involving children will aid in strengthening child protection platforms at the local level.

The individuals who will comprise the BCPC also need to be selected accordingly. The background, knowledge, and skills of these persons have to be considered. Assessing the

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capacity of the BCPC composition is necessary to gauge if the right people are given the right jobs.

Mainstreaming child protection in the local government agenda Another noteworthy recommendation from the DILG-QC representative on strengthening child protection at the local level was the integration of child protection mechanisms in the executive and legislative agenda of the city government. Specific activities and concerns on promoting children and youth welfare have to be incorporated in the plans and programs of the local government. This will help ensure that proper budget allocation for children’s needs is made. Furthermore, the enactment and implementation of policies related to child protection will also be a priority if mainstreaming is done.

Successful integration of children’s agenda in the plans and policies of the government is also seen as a mechanism for sustaining the efforts toward child protection and development.

Stricter implementation of the law Various national and local legislations have been ratified to support children and youth welfare. However, the effective implementation of these laws still remains a challenge.

Respondents from the city government have shared that strict implementation of such laws needs to be done especially at the barangay level. One of the identified ways for this to be realized was the equipping of the Barangay Council and BCPC as mentioned above. If they are made aware of these laws and understand its value, efficient and effective implementation will be possible.

Monitoring from the city and other relevant stakeholders was also considered useful for the local authorities, especially the Barangay Council and BCPC, to really do their tasks and responsibilities seriously.

B.

BARANGAY

Bagong Silangan

Adults Strengthen programs for children and youth For children to be protected from any harm, the adult respondents from the barangay have shared the importance of enhancing projects and activities that fulfill children’s basic

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rights.

One of the programs that respondents see as a priority is the provision of

scholarship. Addressing the educational needs of children would help them find a stable job in the future.

Investment on sports initiatives was also recommended. Specifically, support to youth athlete is deemed significant for the youth to be able to develop camaraderie while achieving physical fitness. As part of enhancing the programs for children and youth, organizing trainings on leadership and child protection are also viewed as necessary. The adults, especially the BHWs, shared that counseling for children and youth also provides an avenue where young individuals can be provided with guidance and direction especially those that experience early marriage and other emotional difficulties.

Children coming from the sector of persons with disabilities also need to be given with special attention. Children with disabilities have specific needs that have to be considered in planning process. Their representation is considered imperative for the local government to be able to develop responsive and need-specific plans for them.

Support to organizations that cater to children and youth needs Apart from the Barangay Council, the children and youth of Bagong Silangan are also supported by community-based organizations such as the HOA. Specifically, the HOA provides assistance to the youth through organizing livelihood activities. In most cases, children who are out of school benefit from the economic activities, which the HOA leads such as catering, bead- making, and pillow-making. The presence of economic activities enables the youth to harness their skills while earning money for their needs. Support including technical assistance and funding to HOA is recommended to sustain their initiatives for the children and youth. Organizations from the government and private sectors are identified as possible providers of assistance.

Strengthen barangay governance The adult respondents have also emphasized the need for the Barangay Council to be more proactive in dealing with child and youth issues and concerns. One of the male respondents said that the members of the Barangay Council should craft concrete solutions through programs and projects according to their respective committees and roles.

The Barangay Council also needs to work on a stricter mechanism for the implementation of laws and regulations affecting the children and youth. One of the suggestions for this to be carried out was to have a systematic monitoring platform to ensure that the issues of the young generation are addressed properly and efficiently.

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Youth Responsible parenting The youth of Barangay Bagong Silangan have emphasized the need for parents to be responsible in fulfilling their duties. Good parenting requires parents to be hands on with their children. Parents should be able to provide the guidance that children need through open communication and spending quality time. Furthermore, the parents must inculcate discipline and good conduct to their children. The youth respondents consider values formation and seminar on good parenting as possible measures that the barangay can adopt to strengthen local child protection mechanisms.

Awareness raising campaign The intensified conduct of public awareness campaign was also underscored as a fundamental mechanism to promote child protection. The conduct of orientation sessions and seminars on child rights; issues affecting the children and youth especially drugs, bullying, and abuse; the programs of government for children and youth; and the different child and youth-related policies is regarded as a powerful channel for raising people’s consciousness.

Strengthening advocacy initiatives on child protection is also considered a mechanism to promote the existing efforts of the community and explore opportunities for resource mobilization.

Sta. Lucia

Adults Multi-sectoral planning The adult respondents have suggested that multi-sectoral consultation and planning is necessary for children and youth concerns to be addressed holistically. The active participation of young individuals from the LGBT community and persons with disabilities sector is regarded as a platform for them to express their specific concerns and issues that need priority and attention. One of the recommendations for this to succeed was the creation of an active technical working group (comprised of adults and youth) at the barangay level that will discuss the projects, programs, and activities (PPAs) for children and youth. The presence of such group will provide a venue to discuss the budgetary requirements of children and youth in response to the presented needs relating to health, education, social and services.

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Strengthen organizing work Intensified organizing of children youth in the community was also recommended. When children and youth are organized, they are provided with opportunities to enhance their capacities as individuals. Joining organizations enable the young individuals to participate in different trainings which provide them valuable lessons and skills. Membership to organization also offers a platform for children and youth to exercise their freedom of expression as part of the community and nurture good relationship with others.

Build partnerships To address the issue on limited resources in implementing projects and programs for children and youth, building more partnerships with local groups and national agencies was recommended. Establishing linkages with these organizations is considered helpful in exploring opportunities for funding and other forms of assistance. Furthermore, expanding the network of the barangay is also a means to learn good practices which they can replicate from other actors involved in child protection work.

Youth Better law implementation The youth respondents from Barangay Sta. Lucia underscored the importance of stricter law implementation to advance children and youth welfare. One of the ordinances in the community that the respondents deem important to be strictly enforced is the disciplinary hours. When this is done, the involvement of minors to risks such as rape, gang wars, drug use, stealing, crimes, and vices will be avoided. The strict monitoring of BPSO and other relevant authorities especially during late nights was identified as necessary in effectively implementing disciplinary hours. Furthermore, the role of parents was also mentioned to be crucial in the successful execution of the ordinance. When parents are able to discipline and guide the children, staying late outside will not be a problem.

Proper budget allocation for human resource and other logistical needs for the implementation of other child-related laws was also recommended.

Awareness raising activities Similar to the recommendation of the youth from Barangay Bagong Silangan, the conduct of awareness raising activities related to child protection was considered significant. By informing both the children and adults on child protection and child rights, they will be able to work together in ensuring a safe place for the young generation. Collaboration between the two groups to implement programs that keep children away from harm will be

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made possible. Activities such as “Kariton Klasrum� Program where youth are able to read books and showing of educational films featuring development issues and good values are encouraged.

Enabling environment for children’s participation Another significant recommendation that was raised by the youth was for the Barangay Council to create a venue for the children and youth to be involved in community activities just like the adults. The young individuals should be encouraged to participate in activities related to environment, sports, education, and spirituality. Participation to such will help children and youth hone their knowledge, skills, and attitude as good citizens of their community. This will also allow them to feel belongingness and equal treatment, as well as exercise their freedom of expression.

Responsible parenting Given that parents are treated as role models, the youth respondents have recommended that they practice good parenting skills through open communication and positive discipline. No matter how busy they get, quality time with children should be a priority for both the mother and father. Furthermore, a youth respondent mentioned that parents should be able to provide for the family to prevent children from engaging into jobs that compromise their safety.

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References: Center for Disaster Preparedness and Plan International-Philippines (2015). Strengthening Resilience to Disasters among Vulnerable Urban Poor Communities in Manila, Philippines Research Report. Manila: Plan International.

The Local Government of Quezon City (2015). Facts and Figures. Retrieved January 19, 2017 from http://quezoncity.gov.ph/index.php/facts-and-figures.

Philippine Statistics Authority (2013). Quezon City Population Peaked at 2.8 Million (Results from the 2010 Census of Population and Housing). Retrieved January 20,2017 from https://psa.gov.ph/content/quezon-city-population-peaked-28-million-results-2010census-population-and-housing

Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (2015). Quezon City DRRM Initiatives. Retrieved February 1, 2017 from http://www.lcp.org.ph/UserFiles/League_of_Cities/file/Presentation_Quezon-City-DRRMInitiatives.pdf

Quezon City Council (2012). An Ordinance enacting the Quezon City Children’s Code of 2012. Retrieved January 31, 2017 from http://quezoncitycouncil.ph/ordinance/SP/sp2180,%20s-2012

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Valenzuela City

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Map of Valenzuela City featuring the two project areas Barangay Arkong Bato and Ugong.

Source: Wikimedia, 2016.

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I.

Overview of Local Context

A.

Geography and Demography

Valenzuela, known for its rich blend of colonial history and modern industry, is one of the sixteen (16) cities that comprise the National Capital Region (NCR). The city, which covers 44.59 square kilometers, can be found at the northwestern end of NCR and is approximately 14 kilometers from the country’s capital, the city of Manila. Other surrounding localities are Quezon City and Caloocan to the east, Navotas on the western side, Malabon in the south, and the province of Bulacan in the north. Though landlocked, the city is bounded by three interconnecting bodies of water—River Polo, River Meycauayan, and River Tullahan in the south (www.valenzuela.gov.ph).

The city encompasses thirty-three (33) communities, locally termed barangay, which are divided into two congressional districts. Twenty-four barangay, which are located in the northern area of the city, fall under District 1 while the remaining nine barangay comprise District 2. Based on the 2015 Philippine Statistics Authority, Valenzuela is home to a total of 620,422 inhabitants and has a population density of 13,822/kms. Given these figures, the city has been ranked the seventh most populous city in the region and the thirteenth in the entire country. Below is a breakdown of the population per age group using data collected in 2010.

Age Group Under 1 1-4 5-9 10-14 15-19 20-24 25-29 30 and over Total

Both Sexes 11,930 48,851 58,634 55,633 54,185 57,731 57,263 230,613 574,840

Male 6,222 25,377 30,180 28,714 26,787 28,356 28,583 114,073 288,292

Female 5,708 23,474 28,454 26,919 27,398 29,375 28,680 116,540 286,548

The National Nutrition Council provided a City/Municipality Summary Report on Operation Timbang (January-March 2012).

Age Group 0-11 months 5 years old and below

Both Sexes 13,760 76,300

Male 7,133 39,840

Female 6,627 36,460

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Of the thirty-three barangay, two were covered for the purpose of this study. The selection of the two barangay—Barangay Arkong Bato and Barangay Ugong—was conducted through consultation meetings with the city government and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).

Arkong Bato Bislig Coloong Lawang Bato Malanday Pariancillo Villa Polo Mabolo Palasan

District 1 Tagalog Balangkas Canumay East Dalandan Lingunan Poblacion Rincon Wawang Pulo

District 2 Malinta Pasolo Punturin Veinte Reales Bignay Canumay West Isla

Bagbaguin Mapulang Lupa Parada Gen. T. de Leon Marulas Paso de Blas Karuhatan Maysan

Arkong Bato Barangay Arkong Bato is one of the constituent communities found in District 1 of Valenzuela City. The barangay is known for the eponymous historical stone arc that was built during the American occupation in 1910. The landmark separates Barangay Arkong Bato from the neighboring Barangay Santulan of the city of Malabon. Another well-known landmark in the area is the River Polo, which runs along the barangay. Arkong Bato is home to 10,004 residents (Census 2015) and has an area of 34.4 square kilometers.

Ugong Like Barangay Arkong Bato, the etymology of Ugong stems from a colorful history. According to the LGU of Valenzuela, the name ugong is based on the sound of the strong current that flows along the local creek of the same name. The barangay is located in District 2 of the city. With an area of 307.2 square kilometers, the barangay is considered to be one of the largest communities in Valenzuela in terms of land size. It is also one of the most populous barangays in the city with a growing population of 41,821 residents (Census 2010).

B.

Socio Economic Context

Valenzuela, along with the rest of its neighbors in the National Capital Region, possesses the status of a first class, highly urbanized city with an annual income of P3,141,657,540 (Annual Audit Report on the City of Valenzuela, 2015). Like most areas in the country, Valenzuela’s humble beginnings are rooted in rural and agricultural livelihood. In recent years, the city has experienced a rapid surge in economy through the relocation and

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construction of various locally and internationally owned factories and businesses. In 2015, the local government unit reported 35 completed infrastructure amounting to P102.346 million and 33 buildings currently being constructed. Most of these factories can be found in key areas in and round the city and produce major industrial goods, such as plastic, rubber, steel, and textiles.

The outcrop of commercial and industrial companies has also developed a formidable labor force and created hundreds of employment opportunities for the residents of Valenzuela. Many have found work as production and factory workers, manual laborers, and service providers. The city has been recognized for its achievements in infrastructure and economy, and the local government unit of Valenzuela was ranked as the Most Business-Friendly locality by the National Competitiveness Council in years 2012 and 2014.

Facilities Educational Day Care Centers Preparatory Secondary Tertiary Technical Health Hospitals Health Centers Lying-in Clinics

Public

Private

Total

80 41 19 2 1

23 75 41 7 12

103 116 60 9 13

2 47 3

5 0 24

7 47 27

Arkong Bato Barangay Arkong Bato is a mostly residential area with a record of 1,760 households in 2012 (Faces of Poverty in Valenzuela, 2012). The barangay also has a strong commercial sector and is comprised of small- to medium-scale business establishments, such as furniture shops, garages, and general merchandise stores. The most notable educational facility in the area is the Arkong Bato National High School, which was once an annex of Valenzuela National High School before becoming an independent entity in August 2009. Other historical landmarks in the locality are the Arkong Bato chapel and the statue of Delfin Belilia Navarase.

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Ugong Aside from having a strong residential population, Ugong also has a highly developed industrial sector with the growing presence of factories and medium-scale commercial establishments. Manufacturing factories of LPG gas, paint, ink, and other materials are scattered among the populous areas of the community. The barangay also has several educational institutions such as the Silvestre Lazaro Elementary School, Sitero Francisco National High School, and the Words of Wisdom Christian Academy. Community presence in Barangay Ugong is apparent through its many local organizations, which are mostly parish groups, home owners associations, and youth clubs.

C.

Overview of DRRM and CCA Projects and Activities

As previously stated, the city is surrounded by three rivers—Polo, Meycauayan, and Tullahan. A combination of exposure from these bodies of water, the existing low-lying topography of the city, and mid to heavy rains customary to the climate of the country often leave Valenzuela vulnerable to flooding. Poor sewage and waste disposal system also factor in to the city’s vulnerability to flooding, which affects local business and hinders the day-to-day lives of the people of Valenzuela.

The leaders and officials of the city are well aware of this disaster situation, and the LGU has responded to this need through a number of disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA) related policies and activities. Some of these measures include the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (2009-2018), Solid Waste Management Related Ordinances/Policies, Contingency Plans, Local DRRM plan, and Urban Planning.

In their quarterly report for Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund Utilization for September 2015, the city possessed P65,814,598.93 of funding for pre-disaster preparedness programs. Some of this funding was allocated for flood control projects, a waste segregation program, climate proofing of school buildings, and geo tagging of industries and businesses. These activities were augmented by numerous disaster preparedness and response trainings and seminars conducted by the LGU and spearheaded by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

Although flooding is the city’s foremost hazard in terms of frequency of occurrence, fire caused by neighboring factories is considered one of the city’s more dangerous hazards.

One infamous incident occurred in May 13, 2015 when Kentex Manufacturing factory, a local manufacturer of footwear, caught fire and caused the demise of seventy-four people, most of whom were factory workers. The accident is considered to be one of the worst fire incidents in the country, and the LGU has since made steps to ensure a similar disaster does not occur again.

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To respond to the diverse array of potentially disasters, a milieu of trainings have been conducted to cover an array of hazards, such as Water Emergency and Life Saving Techniques Training, Basic Emergency First Responder Training (BEFR Training), Basic Fire Safety Prevention Suppression Training, Disaster Preparedness and Drill Orientation (DPDO), and Community Based Disaster Risk Reduction and Management.

The LGU of Valenzuela has also acknowledged the importance of involving the youth in such preparedness activities and has taken action through various youth-centered programs such as the formation of the Task Force Youth in barangays, the implementation of different cleanliness programs throughout the city, and the conduct of various disaster preparedness and response trainings such as school disaster and risk management, Red Cross Youth, and local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts activities.

Arkong Bato In spite of the barangay’s susceptibility to hazards like flooding, the activities conducted in Arkong Bato are aimed at the general welfare of the residents and not particularly focused on disaster risk reduction and mitigation. Programs that focus on anti-gambing, antiviolence, and the protection of women and children were highlighted during previous interviews. However, the barangay has conducted several activities that may be lodged under the thematic area of prevention and mitigation—such as clean-up drives and clearing of canals and waterways.

Ugong The council members of Barangay Ugong have crafted a Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan in preparation for emergency situations and potential hazards. The plan details activities and programs in line with the four thematic areas—preparedness, prevention and mitigation, response, and recovery and rehabilitation. Some of the activities that fall under preparedness include fire drills for students in the local schools and awareness-raising seminars conducted in coordination with the city LGU. In terms of prevention and mitigation, the barangay conducts regular activities such as the unclogging and clearing of canals in order to prevent flooding in the area. The barangay also has a complete BDRRMC structure and has designated leaders and members for their response committees, which include a security team, a team for disaster assessment and needs analysis team, supplies, communications, operations, transportation, rescue, evacuation, health services, and relief operations.

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II.

Stakeholders

The study sought to craft a comprehensive and inclusive report through the strategic targeting of respondents from the city and barangay level. Thus, the respondents engaged were composed of a diverse group of individuals of different backgrounds, age, gender, sector, and roles in the community. It was important for the research team to invite respondents representing both the duty-bearers and the rights-holders in the community, as well as representatives from different sectors such as women, older persons, children and youth, and people with disabilities. In so doing, the research hoped to cull out responses rich in diversity, individual experiences, and multiple perspectives.

The respondents were divided into three groups—representatives from the LGU, adult representatives from the communities of Barangay Arkong Bato and Barangay Ugong, and youth representatives from the two barangay. Through the process of conducting key informative interviews (KII) and focus group discussions (FGD), the study was able to draw out the perceptions of the stakeholders on child protection mechanisms and their experiences on the sources of everyday harms against children and youth.

City Valenzuela

Method Focus Group Discussion Workshop

Tools Sources of harm in the household, school, and barangay/community Existing child protection mechanisms, laws, policies, and projects Definition of child protection Challenges Recommendations

Participants City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) Department of Education (DepEd) Total

Male 2

Female 1

0

3

0

1

2

5

Male

Barangay

Methods

Tools

Participants

Arkong Bato

Focus Group Discussion Key Informant Interviews Workshop

Sources of harm in the household, school, and barangay/community Effects of harm on children Existing child protection mechanisms, laws, policies, and projects

Barangay Council Barangay Health Worker (BHW) Arkong Bato National High School Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) and Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC)

Female

1 0

5 1

0

1

1

1

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Definition of child protection Challenges Recommendations

Barangay Ugong

Methods Focus Group Discussion Key Informant Interviews Workshop

Tools Sources of harm in the household, school, and barangay/community Effects of harm on children Existing child protection mechanisms, laws, policies, and projects Definition of child protection Challenges Recommendations

Barangay GTOC (Homeowners Association) Defin Vililla Neighborhood Association Inc. Barangay staff Task Force on Youth Development Total Participants Barangay council member Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (BDRRMC) Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) and Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Barangay lupon/ Barangay tanod Barangay health worker (BHW) Barangay staff Philippine National Police Department of Education (Teacher) Senior Citizen Community members TFYD, Students, Ugong Youth Club Total

1

3

0

1

2 1

0 0

6 Male 1

12 Female 3

0

1

0

1

0

3

0

2

1 2

0 0

0

3

2 4 4

0 2 2

14

17

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III.

Main Sources of Harm to Children and Youth

One of the components of the study is to provide an accurate illustration of the status of child protection in Valenzuela. In line with this, it is important to first identify the existing sources of harm to children and youth in the city. The researchers acknowledge that the spectrum for potential harms is wide and cuts across different aspects in the lives of children and youth. In order to gain a more holistic perspective, the study focused on three environments that have the biggest impact on children and to which children and youth experience the most exposure; mainly the household, school, and the barangay.

The respondents were encouraged to provide answers based on their own experiences as well as the experiences of youth and children in their communities. They were further informed that these sources of harm need not be limited to people and situations but certain actions, attitudes, and practices that can be harmful to the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of children.

A.

CITY

The respondents from the city level comprised of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer, Women and Child Protection Desk officer, staff from the City Health Office, and teaching staff from the Department of Education. As such, they were able to identify clear and specific sources of harm to children and youth. Among the answers given, the respondents agreed that the following sources of harms were the most prevalent and had the biggest impact on children.

•

• • • •

Household Disease spread by insects such as mosquitoes (dengue) Disease and harm caused by stray dogs Incestuous rape and abuse Domestic conflict Addiction to gadgets

• • • •

• • •

School Bullying Drugs Hazardous materials from construction Acts of lasciviousness from teachers towards students Flood Cheating Addiction to cellphones

• •

•

Barangay Stray dogs and cats Harassment Vulnerability to physical and sexual abuse especially during disasters Vehicular accidents and incidents

The home is often considered as a child’s safe place—a form of shelter where the immediate needs of children are provided and where their character is first developed through the care and guidance and parental figures. However, findings during the FGD with city level officials reveal that there are still some existing harms in the household that can have a severe impact on the well-being and development of children and youth. Based on the findings above, a common source of harm are diseases that endanger the health of

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children. One such harm is disease spread by mosquitoes, particularly dengue. In 2015, DOH recorded 66,299 suspected dengue cases nationwide from January 1 to July 16, 2016 (DOH Dengue Cases, 2016), while 4,525 suspected dengue cases were recorded in the National Capital Region. Despite being declared a dengue hotspot in previous years, Valenzuela has seen a 43 percent decline in cases in 2015 (Dengue Cases Down in Valenzuela, Philippine Daily Inquirer 2015). Young children are the most susceptible to dengue, and the Epidemiology Bureau of the Public Health Surveillance Division documented that the greatest number of recorded cases belong to children age five to fourteen years old.

Outbreaks often occur during the rainy season when stagnant water and poorly maintained drainage and sewage systems create ideal breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes.

Another life-threatening harm is disease spread by stray dogs and cats. Rabies, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a viral disease that is transmitted from animals to humans through biting. Of the 6,795 recorded cases of animal bites in Valenzuela City, 72 percent involved dogs, while about 1,809 cases involved felines (www.valenzuela.gov.ph 2014). It was also recorded that 3,793 of the patients were aged below fifteen years old, confirming that young children are the most vulnerable to the harm.

Harassment, child abuse, and rape were also cited as harms that exist in the household, school, and community. Distressing accounts of physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse occur under the roof of some homes. In these domestic situations, the perpetrator is usually a parent, relative, or guardian of the child. The familial relationship between perpetrator and victim is often the cause as to why many of these incidents go unreported, making accurate data on the subject difficult to acquire.

The respondents have also cited acts of lasciviousness performed by teachers toward students. These acts may include intentional touching and inappropriate conduct or behavior of teachers, school staff, or people in authority toward children and youth. In previous years, a number of cases have been reported against teachers, but a large number of these occurrences still go unreported. Students who receive sexual advances from teachers often do not report these to authorities for fear of retribution. In other extreme cases, the victims become afraid of going to school, find it difficult to continue with their studies, and stop attending classes.

There have also been reports of sexual harassment during emergency situations, such as during flood or typhoons. Evacuation centers in urban areas are often overcrowded and lack safe and friendly spaces for children. The disorder and sense of emergency often leave children and youth unsupervised, which increases the risk of abuse.

According to UNICEF, child abuse can have a powerful long-term impact on the social, physical, and emotional well-being of children. Aside from the obvious health dangers, which include physical injury, early pregnancy, and increased risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, abuse can also cause psychological distress. This, added to the

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social stigma and discrimination associated with victims of rape and abuse, can lead to difficulties in school and cause the child to withdraw from the community.

In the school setting, bullying was considered the most common source of harm. According to the respondents, bullying can take on the form of verbal and physical abuse or aggression. Foul language, name-calling, and physical violence are the common forms of bullying in the elementary and high school level. Respondents from the LGU and Department of Education have pointed out that bullying, especially done by peers and fellow students, can affect the self-esteem of the child. The subject of the bullying may lose motivation to go to school and can often be shunned by the rest of his or her peers.

The use of illegal drugs was also ranked as one of the major sources of harm in the school.

Studies show that 48.85 percent of drug users admitted to first using drugs at ages 15 to 19 years old (www.ddb.gov.ph). This falls within the high school age bracket and underscores that youth at the secondary level are the most vulnerable to this source of harm. Illegal substances are usually peddled by students to their peers, classmates, and circle of friends or barkada. In 2015, methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, was ranked as the most common illegal substance in the region, being used at 96.74 percent, while cannabis (marijuana) is the second most common at 24.94 percent.

In recent years, technology has become more accessible to the point of becoming an everyday necessity. Unlike the previous decade, when the technology of cellphones was considered a luxury or expensive commodity, children now have easy access to cellphones, computers, and social media. Despite being an integral and indispensable part of modern society, addiction to cellphones and gadgets was considered as a source of harm by the respondents. In the household setting, it was stated that youth spend an unnatural amount of time on cellphones, ironically fuelling the communication gap between parents and children. The respondents have also pointed out that the internet and social media have a significant influence over the attitudes and values of youth today. Foul language, disrespect for elders, and laziness were mentioned as negative values propagated through unchecked access to the internet. Sexually explicit material and violent content online were also cited as risks when young people go online. In the school setting, cellphones can also distract from studies and lessons. Respondents stated that the gadget is also being used as a method of cheating between students during examinations and tests, which was also considered a source of harm in school.

The results above reveal that the sources of harm to children are varied and interconnected. Many of the issues that begin at home—such as the unsupervised use of gadgets, domestic conflict, and health concerns—are everyday situations that children and youth encounter. To some extent, these issues may be seen as trivial compared to more notorious matters such as sexual abuse, bullying, violence, and drug use. However, these household harms or everyday risks impact the development of a child’s values, capacity, character traits, and socialization skills that will later affect the way the child deals with situations in school and in the community. Parental neglect and family conflict are major

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factors that can lead youth to be more dependent on sources of guidance and support outside the home. This can lead to greater peer influence and dependency, which, based on the results, is how youth are introduced to certain vices such as drinking, gambling, smoking, and drugs. In this manner, child protection should begin in the household and in strengthening the capacity and commitment of parents and guardians.

The role of parents is clearly essential in the undertaking to enhance child protection practices in the urban setting. But this responsibility cannot be limited to parents alone.

Everyday risks also exist in the school and the surrounding community and both entities are accountable in raising, shaping, and influencing the development of the children. In this regard, teachers and leaders in the community and the local government unit are equally responsible in ensuring the wellbeing and rights of children. This can be accomplished through the implementation of programs and policies specifically crafted to meet the needs and concerns of young people in the city.

B.

BARANGAY

Arkong Bato Adults •

•

• • • • • •

Household Frequent fighting between the parents/within the family Misunderstanding and miscommunication between family members Children have no respect for elders Foul language used in the household When parents are neglectful of their duties Rebelliousness of youth Values development No food on the table

• • • •

School Bullying (especially from within the barkada) Violence Disrespect for elders Lack of understanding from elders or people in authority

Ranking 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Negligence of parents Influence from wrong set of friends Teenage pregnancy Bullying Communication gap between parents and children

•

•

Barangay Children are neglected or not given enough attention Teen pregnancy

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The adults of Barangay Arkong Bato ranked the negligence of parents as the number one harm to children and youth. According to the respondents, negligent parenting often causes children to go astray and can lead to delinquent behavior. This neglect often forms a void that young people will resort to fill through other relationships that may be positive or have a detrimental effect on their character. Since negligence is a broad term that encompasses many situations, some of the respondents from the barangay sought to define the term through specific examples. One instance of parental neglect is the conflict between parents and children caused by gaps in communication. Although occasional friction between family members is considered normal behavior within the household, extreme conflict that occurs every day can be stressful and unhealthy for the child. Children who witness their parents fighting, exchanging foul language, and disrespecting each other may copy their actions when relating to others. The respondents also considered the lack of proper disciplinary methods toward children as acts of negligence. In their perspective, when young people are allowed to commit wrongdoings without punishment or consequences, they grow up with little or no sense of accountability for their actions. Lastly, parents who are not able to provide for the basic needs of their children were also considered neglectful of their primary responsibilities as providers. The respondents acknowledged that poverty is a common hindrance to the welfare of youth, but they stressed that parents who put their personal desires and vices ahead of the needs of their children are neglecting the basic rights of their child.

Influence from the wrong set of friends was ranked second on the list of harms. According to the respondents, it is through the influence of friends or barkada that young people first develop vices, such as drinking, smoking, and even taking illegal drugs. The reason peers have such a strong influence on children is anchored in young people’s need for acceptance and support. Some youth also join fraternities in high school and college. These are considered dangerous because of the violent hazing and initiation practices that occur within these groups. Gangs are also considered harmful because of their inclination to start territorial disputes with other gangs. These informal groups are known to start violent rumbles and knife fights in the street or outside the school. According to the barangay council, children as young as ten years old take part in gangs.

Teenage pregnancy is another disconcerting source of risk in the community. Girls as young as fifteen years old become early mothers who are yet incapable of providing for the needs of their child. Lack of proper sex education and deterioration in moral values were cited as the major reasons for the growing number of early pregnancy cases. Other less common cases are the outcome of rape and sexual relationships between younger girls and older men. Respondents have pointed out that some cases of teenage pregnancy result in young parents neglecting their children, which was listed as the number one harm in the barangay. In a sense, a cycle of negligence is developed and will continue without proper intervention. Although not included in the ranking of harms, the respondents were able to share incidents of sex initiations or sex scandals that occurred in a local high school.

Reports of such activity have not yet been officially verified but all the adult respondents

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agree that such activity is alarming and should be addressed immediately to avoid leading to unwanted pregnancy, humiliation for the youths involved, and the spread of STDs. Bullying is considered one of the most significant causes of harm. Although bullying exists in the community and sometimes within the household, it is most common in the school setting. Surprisingly, majority of bullying occurs within social circles or between friends.

Once again, the influence of peers on young people is a major factor on a child’s decisions and actions. Bullying, whether verbal or in the form of pressure to commit certain acts, can have a powerful impact on the self-esteem and sense of self-worth of young people. Some students become discouraged from studying or stop going to school altogether because of bullying.

The discussion with the adult respondents of Barangay Arkong Bato proved to be a rich experience and helped shed some light on the risks facing children and youth in Valenzuela City today. Through the sharing, the LGU leaders present were made aware of the risks that affect the daily lives of children and the impact—both short and long term—that they can have on the lives of young people. “We call children the hope of our country. As children, they are vulnerable to harm so it is important that we help protect them,” one responded concluded.

Youth • •

Household Neglect by parents Children/youth become lazy when they are not taught proper behavior by their parents

•

• •

Ranking 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Neglect by parents Bullying Gangs Lack of unity Vices

School When children are lazy at home, they also become lazy in school Bullying caused by gang members Out of school youth and those who are already working

• • • • •

• •

Barangay Drugs Gang-related violence Lack of unity Petty crime Minors and youth engaged in vices (drinking, smoking, etc.)

Bullying Child abuse

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It is interesting to note that although the adult respondents were interviewed separately from the youth, both sets of respondents shared the opinion that the number one risk threatening the safety of young people is the negligence of their parents. The interview revealed that parental negligence and the lack of attention from guardians often leads to the rebellion of children and the development of wayward values and principles. This rebellion against adult authority can manifest in disobedience and disrespect toward people who are considered authority figures. Rebellious children who do not have a strong foundation in good values can easily be swayed toward delinquent activity, such as engaging in vices or involvement with the wrong crowd.

Bullying was also cited by the youth as a significant source of harm to young people.

Through a key informant interview, the youth respondent stated that most bullying activities are enacted by gang members that target students from the local high school.

Gang members threaten students for territorial reasons or in order to extort money from them. According to the respondent, these gangs are composed of youths who come from less fortunate families and informal settler communities. Youths that join gangs are usually young teenagers; however, some children in the elementary years take part in gang activities.

The interview also revealed that the lack of unity within the barangay and among community members is a potential risk to the safety of children. The respondent, who is a youth leader in the barangay, said, “It is difficult to organize groups and activities for the youth.� He went on to explain the importance of youth exercises and programs in the barangay and the difficulty in gaining support from all members of the community. Youth activities such as sports, leadership seminars, and team-building trainings that have a big contribution to the welfare of children do not receive the necessary backing and priority needed for them to be sustainable and effective. The respondent also stressed that the combined efforts from children, parents, and leaders in the LGU are necessary in order to push for the agenda of young people and respond accordingly to their needs.

Lastly, the respondent pointed out that the alarming number of youth engaging in illegal activities and vices is a strong source of harm in the community. Some of the common delinquent activities include smoking, underage drinking, and illegal drugs. The respondent also revealed to have witnessed children as young as five to seven years old smoking cigarettes. The disconcerting image can be seen in more depressed areas in the community.

Vices like drinking, especially late at night, can lead to rowdiness and street fights.

According to the respondent, youth who succumb to peer pressure are usually those that engage in delinquent activity. He also stated that vices are a means of stress relief for youth who are experiencing difficulty in their lives at home and in school.

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Through the lens of a young person, the research was able to cull out a different perspective on the existing risks surrounding children. One notable distinction between the sources of harm listed by both sets of respondents is the involvement of young people in the implementation of child protection activities. During the interview, the youth respondent underlined that the active participation of young people in the assessment, planning, and implementation of youth-oriented activities is a major step in the direction toward a more child-friendly environment.

Ugong Adults •

• •

Household Unhealthy environment due to the presence of chemicals and hazardous materials from factories Domestic conflict Values formation

•

School Bullying

• • •

Barangay Stealing Illness Abuse of people authority

with

Ranking 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Bullying Bad words Conflict of parents/siblings Unhealthy environment (health) Harassment

The adult respondents considered bullying as the most dangerous source of harm toward children and youth in the barangay. Bullying is considered a threat to the well-being of children because of physical hostility and aggression in bullying activities. One of the respondents shared an account in which the physical bullying of a student escalated into full-blown violence and ended with one student stabbing his classmate with an ice pick.

This disturbing case is not the only danger of bullying. Because the harm is prevalent in schools, it can be considered an everyday hazard. The regular exposure to this form of stress can affect the emotional and psychological welfare of children. In one case, a child had to repeat grades and ultimately stop studying because of fear and emotional distress.

Ultimately, bullying does not end with the act and can sometimes have a long-term effect on the self-worth and social development of the child.

The use of foul language followed in the ranking of potential harms. During sharing, it was revealed that children learn foul language and curse words at a very young age. This behavior is an outcome of the environment that the child is raised in. Children are often

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spectators to hostile arguments between parents. Sometimes, children can even be on the receiving end of these hostile remarks when parents or guardians lose their patience.

Words can have a powerful impact on children. The obvious result of growing up in an environment with foul language is that the children pick up on the offensive language and use it when speaking among their peers and even toward some adults. However, the more devastating impact occurs in to the psyche and emotional well-being of the child. Harmful words like insults and demeaning language can damage a child’s sense of worth and have long-term effects on the way the child views himself or herself.

Conflict within the household was another concern on the list of harmful situations.

According to the respondents, household conflict can occur daily in some of the households in the community. These troubled homes become sources of stress to children and youth instead of safe places. Such environments can cultivate fear, insecurity, and a mindset that is normalizes violence or aggression. These outcomes are harmful to the overall well-being of children and can impact the way their future interactions with society and relationships with others.

The adult respondents admitted to being aware of the unhealthy environment in which their children are growing up. An unclean and hazardous environment can lead to other problems like chronic illnesses and bodily harm. Improper waste disposal, the lax implementation of cleanliness policies, and the presence of factories are factors distinctive to the urban setting. Another issue characteristic to the metropolitan setting is the severe traffic. The relentless rush of cars in the streets is not only a source of air pollution, but a potential accident that can endanger the lives of the youth and other community members.

The last potential risk during the discussion is the harassment of children. Harassment has many forms and is present in the household, school, and community setting. In the household, this can be in the form of physical, verbal, or sexual abuse from the parent, guardian, or older relative who has seniority or authority over the child. In the school setting, teachers and fellow classmates are reported to be the perpetrators. Although harassment is more widely known as violent acts against women and girls, some cases of harassment against young boys are known to have occurred. Because of the existing double standard and societal opinion of what is considered “manly�, many of the cases wherein males are harassed go unreported. Aside from physical harm, these incidents of harassment make a long-lasting effect on children and can lead to psychological and emotional trauma.

The potential sources of harm discussed above are clearly interconnected and the occurrence of one risk can instigate another. These everyday sources of harm, like harassment and health risks, can be further aggravated during emergency situations. Cases of sexual harassment and violence have been reported in overcrowded evacuation centers where the security is low. It is imperative that these concerns are addressed in a holistic manner and the connection between them is acknowledged and studied when strategizing for solutions and possible actions.

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Youth •

• •

Household Addiction to cellphones, computer games, and social media Domestic conflict Neglect of parents

• • • • •

School Bullying Peer pressure and influence Teen pregnancy in college Violence among youth Lack of activity for children and youth

•

•

• • •

Barangay Minors and youth involved in vices (drinking, smoking, etc.)

Unhealthy environment due to the presence of chemicals and hazardous materials from factories Petty crime Lack of proper fire exits in factories and facilities Gossip

Ranking 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Domestic conflict Influence of peers Vices Factories Complete education

The youth respondents from Barangay Ugong rated domestic conflict as the number one potential harm to children in the community. Domestic conflict can manifest in many forms—it can be through verbal abuse between parents or care givers, angry outbursts of a guardian towards the children, or physical assault between family members. Exposure to such situations increases the risk of a child being the direct recipient of such hostility. Even as a spectator, the child can be affected emotionally and psychologically by the household conflict.

These problems in the household can drive the child to seek emotional support and attention elsewhere. Once again, the influence of peers was cited as a potential source of harm to children. Adolescents are in a critical stage of emotional, physical, and psychological development. At their age, young people are constantly seeking for approval and a sense of belongingness. In troubled households, the youth is inclined to look for attention and support elsewhere, such as in the company of friends and fellow peers.

Because of the desire to conform and to belong, some youths will engage in rebellious activity, such as cutting classes in favor of playing basketball or computer games. While young boys can get involved with either barkada or fraternities, young girls have their own cliques and exclusive groups. According to the respondents, girls participate in anakanakan (literally translated as foster child) in their cliques. Older or more mature members of the clique are usually called nanay or mother and younger members are referred to as

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the children. In this manner, young people have constructed their own families composed of their peers. This set-up underlines the level of influence older members of a group can have on the younger members.

Engagement in vices, which was also found in the list of risks, is usually introduced to youths in their teenage years. The most common forms are smoking, underage drinking, and the use of illegal substances and drugs. According to the respondents, young people engage in these vices for various reasons. For some, it is a rite of passage to adulthood. For others, smoking and drinking are a means of stress relief from problems at home and in school. Regardless of the reasons, vices are clear risks to the health and general welfare of children. Some as young as ten to twelve years old have started smoking or trying illegal substances. This behavior is usually influenced by peers or family members.

Another interesting addition to the list of potential harms is the presence of factories in the area. Factories and manufacturing businesses that are scattered across the barangay increase the risk of fire in the community. Incidents in the past, such as the horrific Kentex Manufacturing accident in 2015, have prompted the LGU to implement stricter measures against fires. Aside from posing as a fire hazards, factories also have a detrimental impact on the environment. Chemical leaks, poor disposal of garbage, and smoke fumes pollute the air and sources of water in the barangay. This increases the risk of developing diseases and health problems, especially to the more vulnerable sectors like young children, people with disabilities, and older persons.

Last on the list of major hazards is the fulfillment of the educational needs for children and youth. The respondents shared that there is a significant number of out-of-school youth in the barangay. These are students who have constantly cut classes or have completely stopped going to school. Several factors hinder students from acquiring a complete education. The number one hindrance cited was poverty. According to the youths, there is a growing need for affordable and accessible quality education. Some students choose to stop studying in order to start earning for their families. Many working students try to manage their time between work and studies but a majority find the demands of employment and school too difficult and choose to work full-time instead. Another reason is the lack of motivation. Some youths do not see the importance of education and are more interested in playing basketball or computer games. These distractions can deter young people from completing their high school or college level and lower their chances in acquiring a better paying job in the future.

Once again, sharing from the youth reveals a perspective unique to their age and experiences. Instead of assumptions, they were able to accurately and specifically explain some of the reasons behind these sources of harm. Through their experiences, the researchers were able to gather more information regarding the impact of these risks and, possibly, a better and more inclusive way to address them.

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IV. Mechanisms to Address Harm The respondents from the city and barangay level were given the opportunity to talk about the efforts made by stakeholders and duty-bearers in order to address social issues and possible sources of harm to the young constituents of Valenzuela. These can take the form of policies, trainings, and different activities that specifically cater to certain risks.

A.

CITY Laws

•

•

Youth Welfare and Development Ordinance of Valenzuela.

O-025-2011 An ordinance for the city registration of all the out-ofschool youth residing within the Valenzuela City.

Capacity Building (e.g. training)

•

•

•

Trainings in basic life support and rescue DepEd strengthening school disaster risk reduction and management Quarterly school drills

Public Information Materials (poster, pamphlets, IEC materials) • Dissemination of pamphlets basic things to do before, during, and after disasters.

Projects (e.g. Oplan Batang Hamog, Curfew, etc.)

•

•

•

•

•

•

Department of Education project for response for high school students DepEd project for strengthening school disaster risk reduction and management Drug campaign and physical conditioning Counseling for child drug addicts and planned rehabilitation programs of LGU October was set as disaster preparedness month Feeding program

The LGU has developed a myriad of approaches to address the rights and needs of its young people. In terms of local legislature, the city government of Valenzuela crafted the Youth Welfare and Development of Valenzuela ordinance in 2014. This ordinance sanctioned the establishment of the Valenzuela City Council for Youth Development. Through this council, the city sought to formulate the Youth Welfare and Development Agenda for the city. It was

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also formed to develop the leadership potential of the youth in Valenzuela through the trainings, projects, and programs. In order to cultivate an inclusive and participatory environment, representatives from various local youth organizations were invited to be involved in the drafting and implementation of policies that will focus on ensuring the security of young people from abuse and exploitation, providing mechanisms for affordable education, and raising awareness of the rights and privileges of children and youth.

There are also a number of ordinances that primarily focus on the welfare of out-of-school youth. An ordinance in May 2011 was formulated to establish the Valenzuela City Government Internship Program for Out-of-School Youth. The program was designed to develop the potential and capacity of out-of-school youth through internship positions in local offices and agencies. Another ordinance crafted in June 2011 institutionalized the registration of all the out-of-school youth residing in the city.

In terms of capacity building, most of the activities that cater to the youth are focused on disaster response. This comes as no surprise given that Valenzuela City has a high risk of flooding and fires. The month of October was established as Disaster Preparedness Month in the city. Some of the activities during this month include trainings in basic life support and rescue and disaster awareness orientations care of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. The Department of Education also played its part in terms of equipping students in disaster risk management through activities that strengthen local school DRRM. Quarterly school fire and earthquake drills were also conducted by the LGU in partnership with the local schools and Bureau of Fire Protection.

Some efforts in raising the awareness of youth and the rest of the community were also made. Through the leadership of the CDRRMO, DRRM pamphlets were disseminated in local offices and schools. Pamphlets for children usually have colorful pictures that depict the to-dos before, during, and after a disaster. Such information, education, and communication materials are useful in delivering vital information in bite-size form that can be easily understood by young children.

The respondents also shared that the LGU has been able to lead the implementation of several projects that address some of the problems facing young people today. Given the current social upheaval brought about by the President Rodrigo Duterte’s War on Drugs campaign, the LGU has sought to protect young children involved in drugs through counseling and rehabilitation programs. Through counseling, the children are provided access to a clinical psychologist or professional counselor that can listen to the issues and problems they are facing. On the other hand, the rehabilitation program is fitted with various activities that can help channel the energy of the youth to more positive actions.

Other smaller scale projects have also been discussed, such as feeding programs aimed at improving the nutrition of young children. These programs are usually spearheaded by the

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City Health Office and aided by the rural health offices of the different barangay in Valenzuela.

B.

BARANGAY

Barangay Arkong Bato Laws

•

Curfew implemented by the barangay tanod and volunteers

Capacity Building (e.g. training) •

•

•

• • • •

Training on Child Protection with juvenile delinquents (CSWDO/DILG) ABS CBN Bantay Bata cyber bullying seminar Child protection policy awareness orientation for students/GPTA Parents’ orientation Students’ orientation BCPC seminar VAWC seminar

Public Information Materials (poster, pamphlets, IEC materials) • Anti-bullying posters/DepEd • Pamphlet/brochures on Child Protection (City Government

Projects (e.g. Oplan Batang Hamog, Curfew, etc.)

• Oplan Galugad • Nanay Teacher • Bahay Kalinga • Oplan Tokbuk – ALS

The adult respondents were able to talk about some of the activities focused on child protection that have been implemented at the barangay level. In terms of policies, the barangay council set curfew hours from ten in the evening to four in the morning. The curfew is enforced by the barangay tanod and some local volunteers. This policy was developed to minimize the number of petty crime activities and public disturbance incidents that usually occur late at night or in the early hours of the morning. Children caught outside their homes or in the streets during curfew hours are immediately brought home and their parents are ordered to pay a fine.

The City Social Welfare and Development Office and Department of Internal Local Government have partnered to address the growing number of juvenile delinquents in the city. In terms of capacity building, delinquent youth receive trainings and activities that are aimed to reintegrate them as functional and upright members to society. These activities are not limited to children and youth alone. BCPC and VAWC seminars are conducted for barangay health workers, volunteers, and parents. Other capacity building seminars

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include the ABS-CBN Bantay Bata cyber bullying seminar and child protection policy awareness orientations for students and parents.

The majority of delinquents, coined children in conflict with the law (CICL), are aged fourteen to seventeen years old and have experience with petty crime. Because of their age, youth that are caught are not incarcerated in local jails but placed in rehabilitation centers and halfway homes like House of Hope and Bahay Kalinga. Leaders from the LGU have acknowledged the importance of reformation in order to keep children off the streets and out of prison. “[Kailangan ng] tamang turo ng magagandang values sa mga kabataan na di sila matututong magbisyo.” (There is a need to teach children good values so that they do not turn to vices or immoral activities.) In order to do so, the LGU constructed House of Hope in 2013. The rehabilitation center is a response to the Juvenile Justice Act of 2006. It serves as a temporary home for troubled minors and provides them with their basic needs. On the other hand, Bahay Kalinga is a halfway house run by the LGU of Valenzuela.

It is located in Barangay Canumay West and offers temporary care for constituents of the city that are in need of shelter because of difficult or distressing circumstances. These individuals are usually children or older persons who are found on the streets of the city.

In 2013, the program housed thirty-three clients comprised of victims of sexual abuse and abandoned children and older persons.

The city has launched several programs aimed at improving the education of the youth.

One is the Nanay-Teacher Parenting Program. The project is run by the local government and lodged under Valenzuela City’s Education 360˚ Investment program. The main goal of Nanay-Teacher Parenting Program is to strengthen the roles of parents as major actors and contributors to the formal education of their children. This is achieved through capacity building activities, orientations, and practical training. Through the program, parents learn basic steps in effective parenting and the facilitation of home learning to supplement institutional education.

Another program called Oplan Tokbuk is aimed at encouraging out-of-school-youths to return to school or take up Alternative Learning System (ALS) classes. Through the program, the states hopes to increase the number of literate and educated young people in the city.

The program also provides youth in dire circumstances with the opportunity to learn useable and marketable skills that they can use in the future.

In terms of public awareness materials, the Department of Education has developed posters to campaign against bullying in elementary and secondary schools. These posters provide a striking and concise medium of conveying messages that both children and adults can understand easily. On the other hand, the city government of Valenzuela has developed pamphlets and brochures to spread the awareness of child protection to the public.

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V. A.

Definition of Child Protection CITY

The discussion with respondents from the city level revealed that child protection is generally viewed as ensuring the overall welfare of children and youth. It is interesting to note that the respondents highlighted the emotional needs of children—such as hope, care, love, and happiness—as an essential aspect of child protection. This was stated in the context of the household and providing a safe space where children can feel loved and care for by their guardians. Trust was also stated as a key element in the relationship between guardians—mainly the parents—and the child. The respondents stated that these elements can greatly affect the emotional and psychological growth of children and influence the development of their character as they progress into adulthood.

The respondents also stated the importance of upholding the rights of children as a pillar of child protection. Basic rights to food, security, and shelter are imperative to the health and well-being of children. Another basic right that was discussed was education and its impact on the projected future of the youth. Many of the respondents believe that a proper education opens doors of opportunities for children to learn, gain experience, and form relationships with their peers.

B.

BARANGAY

Arkong Bato

Adults Similar to the results from the city level focus group discussion, the adults of Barangay Arkong Bato highlighted upholding the basic rights of children as a key form of child protection. However, the discussion with the focus group was able to extend the definition of child protection beyond the provision for the basic needs of children and youth. The respondents underscored the importance of rehabilitation especially for children in conflict with the law. According to them, rehabilitation is a form of protection from illegal drugs and harmful vices that can threaten the health and future of a child. Through rehabilitation, wayward youth are given the opportunity to become functional and contributive members of society.

Psychosocial support was also agreed to be a form of child protection. Traumatic experiences can have a severe effect on the psychological and emotional welfare of children. Often, traumatic events may be caused by other people—such as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. However, experiencing natural disasters like typhoons, flooding, and

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fire, also have a powerful lasting impact on a child’s sense of security. Such events can cause youth, especially young children, to feel unsafe and anxious when triggered by certain circumstances. This psychosocial trauma can affect their character, studies, and relationships with others. Through psychosocial support, children afflicted with psychosocial trauma can be provided with the support and emotional tools they need to recover.

Youth The interview with the representative of youth in Barangay Arkong Bato provided insight into the understanding of the young sector on child protection. During the interview, the respondent highlighted that proper rearing and training of children is a key element in child protection. The respondent explained that children who are brought up with proper values—such as kindness, obedience, an importance for education—are more likely to grow into upright adults. He also stated that youth who are involved in activities that foster leadership and good morals are less likely to be involved in harmful activities, such as drinking, smoking, gambling, and using illegal drugs.

Ugong

Adults The respondents from Barangay Ugong agreed that child protection is fundamentally ensuring the well-being of children and youth through upholding their rights. Food and shelter were stated as essential needs that should be provided in the household. The importance of education was also discussed as a determining factor in the future of children in the barangay. Access to quality education and a safe school for students were deemed necessary elements for the intellectual and social development of the youth in the barangay.

The adults of Barangay Ugong also underscored the importance of ensuring safe surroundings for children and youth as the main precept of child protection. According to the group, it is important to remove the risk and potential hazards in the community in order to ensure the safety of children and youth. These hazards can be natural, such as flooding from rain and typhoons, or man-made like fires, pollution, and accidents. The group also highlighted the importance of guarding against social risks in the household and community like rape, drugs, crime, and incarceration of youth. Such risk need to be removed in order to provide a healthy and constructive environment where children can grow. In order to do so, the respondents stated the need to identify the hazards in the

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community as well as the existing vulnerabilities of children as a step towards addressing these concerns.

Youth Findings during the focus group discussion with youth from the barangay revealed that their understanding of child protection is closely connected to its actors or implementers.

For the youth, child protection should be a priority of care givers—the parents—and duty bearers, which are composed of the barangay council, police, and teachers. In order to do so, the youth stated that there is a need for adult stakeholders to be aware of the importance of child protection and the means with which to address harms in the household, school, and community.

The respondents also stated that the youth themselves are important implementers of child protection. According to them, the youth can be given importance through providing them venues where they can be involved in the barangay planning and community activities.

VI.

Challenges

A.

CITY

Limited Funding The respondents from the city government of Valenzuela have cited a myriad of challenges that hinder the implementation of child protection measures in the locality. The list includes the lack of manpower, the capacity of staff, and a lack of supplies. At the crux of these concerns is the limited funding of the government. According to the representative from the City Health Office, “The implementation of projects and programs, manpower, supplies, and coordination between offices—all of these need funding.”

The representative from the Department of Education added that the LGU and the school have many programs that they would like to implement that can cater to the needs of young people; however, due to the lack of funding, only a few projects are given approval.

As one of the first responders to concerns regarding the safety of children, the Women and Child Protection Desk is open twenty-four hours a day. However, the office has a limited number of investigators and staff that can deal with the incoming cases at a daily basis.

Limited funds constrain the office from hiring more staff members to address this need.

The office also lacks funds to provide for supplies, computers, and transportation fare, which is necessary when the investigators travel to the households of victims of abuse and violence.

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Lack of coordination between LGU offices There respondents have agreed that in order to successfully implement programs for child protection, there is a need for the offices at the LGU to work together and complement each other. However, the group stated that the lack of coordination between stakeholders is one of the biggest challenges they need to overcome toward building safer environments for children. Despite being the main actors in the implementation of child protection measures, DepEd, CSWDO, CHO, CDRRMO, and the WCPD rarely meet to strategize and plan.

The representative from the CDRRMO stated that interlinking efforts between the offices is necessary to ensure the sustainability of child-centered programs.

B.

BARANGAY

Arkong Bato

Children in conflict with the law The adult group of Barangay Arkong Bato cited children in conflict with the law as one of the biggest challenges of the community in terms of security. According to the group, young offenders take advantage of RA 10630 that establishes the age of criminal responsibility at fifteen years old. Because the youth know that they cannot be imprisoned, they commit criminal offenses without fear of incarceration or getting caught. This also leads CICL to become repeat offenders and regularly in contact with the justice system.

The group also stated that criminal syndicates also use the law to their advantage by using children to execute the criminal acts for them. These felonies include theft, selling and possession of illegal substances, and illegal gambling. The problems with CICL have led the respondents to believe that an “iron fist� is necessary in dealing with young offenders and that there is a need to imprison youth with more than five repeat offenses. This challenge is timely especially given the recent attempts to lower the criminal age of children in the Philippines from fifteen to nine years old.

Poor values formation in youth According to the respondents, poor values formation is a major contributing factor to youth engaging in harmful activities. Disrespect for elders, laziness, deceitfulness, and violence

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are some of the traits children develop that can lead to involvement in illegal and inappropriate activities, such as underage drinking and smoking and the use of illegal substances.

Although parents are considered the main stakeholders in the values formation of children, teachers and adult authorities in the community also have a responsibility in forming the character of young people.

Negligence of parents The negligence of parents or guardians is considered to be one of the major challenges to child protection. Since this usually occurs in the home, barangay officials feel like there is little they can do to prevent the occurrence of neglect even with the issuance of policies against neglecting children. Parental negligence can cause physical, emotional, and psychological harm to children and may push them to seek care outside the household.

Ugong

Poor implementation of laws and policies Child-centered policies have been issued on the national and local level to ensure that children are protected and that violators of these policies are rightfully penalized.

However, the respondents have stated that a majority of community members do not trust public officials to implement these laws accordingly. This mistrust is rooted in previous experiences of neglect from officials and a general lack of awareness in the rights of children. Because of this, some victims of child abuse, bullying, and violence are afraid to approach authorities for help and continue living with the abuse.

Another hindrance in the implementation of these policies is the absence of a standard communication system. Many policies that are discussed during meetings remain largely as verbal agreements without actual documents to substantiate them. According to the barangay council members present, these local policies that are developed at the barangay level are not realized because of the lack of standard procedures.

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Poor management of funds Similar to the city level, the barangay stated that funding is a major challenge in its efforts to promote child protection. Poor budget management was cited as the core of their funding problems. According to the respondents, conflicts between the priorities of the decision-making bodies in the barangay can affect the allotment of funds for projects.

Unsafe areas in the barangay The industrial factories and construction areas pose a constant challenge to the residents of Barangay Ugong. Factories in the area emit smoke and other hazardous materials into the air that endanger the health of the nearby communities. Improper waste disposal has also been cited as a cause for the water pollution of rivers near the area.

Aside from the obvious health implications that these factories impose, the numerous construction sites near residential and school area increase the risk of harm and accidents to youth.

VII. A.

Recommendations CITY

Integrating child protection in the LGU annual investment plan The challenges facing the LGU of Valenzuela have a significant impact on the city’s efforts to ensure the safety and promote the rights of children and youth. The respondents made several comprehensive recommendations to address the city’s difficulties. One is the integration of child-centered programs in the city annual investment plan. The direct result of this action will be the allotment of funds for child-centered activities and programs. This will also allow the offices to present their needs in terms of human resource and equipment. On another level, the integration of the child protection agenda in the AIP can provide funding for capacity-building activities for staff in offices directly linked to services for children—such as CHO, CSWDO, and WCPD. The respondents have also stated the need for increased cooperation between offices.

According to the CHO representative, coordination meetings between agencies usually occur at the onset of an oncoming disaster. However, through by integrating the agenda of child protection in the AIP, regular coordination meetings between the offices will receive appropriate allotment. The respondents stated that through regular meetings, the dutybearers can monitor existing child-centered programs, address the gaps and needs of each office, and improve the sustainability of projects.

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B.

BARANGAY

Arkong Bato

Psychosocial support and values formation seminars In order to address the emotional and psychological needs of young people, the respondents suggested that the barangay conduct psychosocial support activities with a lens for children and youth. These activities are particularly aimed at children who have experienced abuse or domestic violence, bullying, and those who have experienced disasters.

Other forms of training can focus on values formation. These activities will not necessarily be framed as trainings or workshops but can be in the form of sports or recreational activities that can deter youth from spending time with negative influences and in computer shops. Leadership seminars will also encourage youth to be more involved in community activities, barangay planning, and academic and extra-curricular activities.

According to the respondents, such activities will develop good values and strengthen the morals of youth.

Parent counseling and orientation Since one of the root challenges in upholding the welfare of children is negligence in the household, the respondents suggested that this can be addressed through parent counseling and orientations. According to them, a licensed professional can support parents and help them be better equipped in raising and guiding their children. Issues in the household, such as the communication gap between parents and children, can also be addressed through this activity. Counseling can also be a means in which parents can talk and organize events for their children.

Despite the issuance of child-centered policies, many community members are unaware of the rights of children. Child protection orientations can be conducted by the local barangay unit with the aim of increasing the awareness of parents on the rights and needs of their children. Orientations can also include capacity-building in first aid and proper handling of children during disasters. Through these activities, both duty-bearers and caregivers will be given a venue to support and capacitate each other toward the development of more resilient children and youth.

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Stricter implementation of policies In order for national and local policies to be effective, barangay officials and authorities at various levels—in the barangay, community, and school—need to carry out stricter implementation of such policies. Respondents noted that more stringent monitoring of liquor and cigarette sales in local stores, implementation of curfew, and the banning of students in internet cafés are some of the important steps that need to be taken in order to lessen the prevalence of children who partake in vices.

Ugong

Capacity building for duty-bearers The respondents from Barangay Ugong have stated that there is a need for capacitybuilding activities for the members of the barangay council. According to them, “Sa amin magsisimula para maturuan ng child protection ang bawat street.” (It should start with us so we can teach every street [in the barangay] about child protection.) The respondents believe that as duty-bearers, it is the responsibility of the barangay council members, BHW, and BCPC to advocate child protection throughout the community. Trainings focused on the rights of children, child-centered policies, and different child protection mechanisms can be provided to the duty-bearers in the form of a workshop.

Investment in Public Awareness Materials The respondents have also underlined the need for investing in public awareness materials. Since the public knowledge on child protection and child rights is relatively low, IEC (information, education, and communication) materials can help increase awareness in the community. Pamphlets on bullying can also be disseminated in local schools and educational institutions. These posters, pamphlets, and brochures can be designed in such a way that both children and adults can quickly understand the message of the material.

According to the respondents, awareness materials are important especially so that children can be made of their rights and the services available to them from the government.

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References

Center for Disaster Preparedness and Plan International-Philippines (2015). Strengthening Resilience to Disasters among Vulnerable Urban Poor Communities in Manila, Philippines Research Report. Manila: Plan International

Tayo na, Valenzuela! The official website of the city government of Valenzuela. Retrieved on January 17, 2017 from http://www.valenzuela.gov.ph/the_city

Population of National Capital Region (2015). Retrieved on January 17, 2017 from https://psa.gov.ph/content/population-national-capital-region-based-2015-censuspopulation-0

2010 Census of Population and Housing. Total Population by Province, City, Municipality and Barangay as of May 2, 2010. Retrieved on January 17, 2017 from https://web0.psa.gov.ph/sites/default/files/attachments/hsd/pressrelease/National%20 Capital%20Region.pdf

Annual Audit Report on the City of Valenzuela (2015). Commission on Audit. Retrieved on January 18, 2017 from http://www.coa.gov.ph/index.php/local-governmentunits/2015/category/5951-cities

Department of Health Dengue Cases (July 10-July 16, 2016). Epidemiology Bureau Public Health Surveillance Division. Retrieved on February 7, 2017 from http://www.doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/statistics/DENGUE%20MW28.pdf

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San Juan City

157

Map of San Juan showing the research sites: Corazon de Jesus and West Crame

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I.

Overview of Local Context

A.

Geography and Demography

San Juan City San Juan City is among the smallest cities in the National Capital Region, accounting for only one percent of its land area. It is located close to the center of Metro Manila, and has a land area of 5.94 square kilometers. The city is locked within key major cities such as Quezon City to its north and east, the City of Manila to its west, and Mandaluyong City to its south. The city of San Juan is divided into two (2) districts (Districts 1 and 11) and 21 barangays (villages).

More than half (63.5% or 3.77 km2) of the land area of the city is of residential use, while a significant percentage accounts for the road network (16% or 0.95 km2). The remaining is divided into commercial (8.9% or 0.53 km2), institutional (6.7% or 0.40 km2), and industrial use (4.9% or 0.29 km2). (San Juan City website) The San Juan River is one of the major tributaries of the Pasig River21, located at the western part of the city. It traverses 18 barangays of Quezon City, 6 barangays of San Juan City, two (2) of Mandaluyong, and one (1) in the city of Manila. Among the tributaries of the San Juan river located within the city are the Ermitaùo creek and Maytunas creek, located at its north and south western parts. The western part of the city has to consistently deal with the flood risk involved due to the presence of its creeks. In fact, 10% of the city’s land area has been declared unfit for development due to the risk of flooding and the slope of the land. (ADB K-Learn materials)

Barangay Corazon de Jesus The land area of Corazon de Jesus is estimated at 33.0234 hectares. It is considered as one of the residential areas of the city. Barangay ErmitaĂąo sits to its north, Pasadena towards the east, Balong Bato and Pedro Cruz towards the west, and Isabelita and St. Joseph to its south. Today, recent development has made way for a part of its residential territory to be converted into buildings, warehouses, and condominiums. The new city hall of San Juan is located at Barangay Corazon de Jesus, and has been in operation since 2012.

Corazon de Jesus has an estimated population of 7,928 based on the 2015 census. Of the total population, 39.9% or 2,190 are males and 60.1% or 5,738 are females. The Barangay

The Pasig River is one of the most important rivers in Metro Manila both economically and historically. It traverses the major cities of the National Capital Region, including: the city of Manila, Makati, Mandaluyong, Pasig and Taguig.

21

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has a total of 4,180 families or 2,090 households. There are 6,070 total Registered Voters in 48 precincts. (San Juan City website) The barangay houses five schools, three of which are public, and two are private. Among the public schools are: Pinaglabanan Elementary School, San Juan National High School (main and annex building) and the Barangay Day Care Center. The private schools are as follows: Fountain International School and Academia del Senor Nazareno.

Barangay West Crame West Crame is located at the west of Camp Crame. To its north is Boni Serrano Avenue. To its east is First West Street, while to its south is Road 8. To its west is 5th West Street, located near the San Juan Cemetery.

B.

Socio-economic Profile

Previously part of the city of Manila, San Juan City has been a Highly Urbanized City (HUC) since 2008. Among the city’s achievement as an HUC is being awarded as the 2nd Top Performing Highly Urbanized City in the Philippines in 2011. Shortly after, the city claimed the top spot as well. (San Juan City Government, 2015).

As of 2015 census, the population of San Juan is at 122,180 (San Juan website lists population at 200,000+). Among its total population, 53% or 64,537 are males while 47% or 56,215 are females. Twenty-seven percent (27%) or 32,165 people of the town’s inhabitants belong to the age bracket under 1-14 years old. The population of Barangay Corazon is estimated at 7,928, while Barangay West Crame’s population is at 16,773.

Due to the city’s growing commercial economy and accessible location, San Juan has been a site for migration in the recent years. This migration has then resulted to a growing number of informal settlers, which the Local Government continuously aims to respond to.

C.

Overview of DRRM Projects

Since the city sits at the center of the region’s plateau, it has little risk with regards to earthquake damage. However, the high informal settler population which lives close to one another make some parts of the city susceptible to fires. Another hazard within the city is flooding, and there are two creeks which may cause it – the Ermitaño creek and the Maytunas creek from the north and south western areas of the city. These creeks drain from the San Juan River, affecting the following barangays: Salapan, Balong Bato, Progreso, San Perfecto, Batis, Rivera, and Kabayanan. Because of this, some areas in the barangays mentioned have been declared unfit for development.

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As such, the city takes part in DRRM projects that ensure the safety and security of children, youth, and the community members as a whole. In 2016 alone, four (4) projects were undertaken by the CDRRMO in cooperation with the barangays. Last April 4, 2016, the barangays of San Juan took part in disaster response skills training for the youth, where a competition was also held. This event invited various youth organizations in the city to test their ability to respond to disasters. The winner of the event, Barangay Pedro Cruz, was able to receive prizes which include stretchers, life vests, first aid kits and other disaster response tools and materials.

On October 26, 2016, San Juan also hosted a city level awareness raising activity, where youths took part in a discussion regarding the risks and hazards in their barangays. They also received training in first aid. In attendance were the TFYD members invited from all the barangays in San Juan.

In cooperation with the CDRRMO, West Crame, Batis, and Corazon de Jesus also developed their contingency planning for their barangays, where they identified the risks in their communities, where fires, as well as drugs, appeared as common source of risk. These three (3) barangays also took part in a community risk assessment (CRA), and a separate Children’s CRA, where the risks specific to children and youth were identified.

To test the response capacity of the barangays of San Juan, the CDRRMO, in partnership with Plan and CDP also conducted a fire drill, in response to the imminent threat in the community, which is the danger of fires. A public forum was also conducted, inviting all public and private schools in San Juan city, where the CDRRMO set up their own information booth. The children and youth, as well as the attendees of the event, were free to ask questions pertaining to DRRM.

II.

Stakeholders

Since inclusivity is part of the priorities of the study, the groups from the city and barangay level were selected from different sectors of society. Apart from the city level representatives and barangay level leaders, the researchers also included members from various civil society groups such as homeowners’ associations, persons with disability organizations, representatives from the LGBT, and other related groups. Apart from considering the sectors, the team also considered age and gender, as well as the role of the duty-bearers and rights-holders. More importantly, the team took into consideration the environment wherein the child and youth develops, which are the household, the community and the barangay. The team also took into consideration the best method that would allow the stakeholders to respond as independently as possible. Hence, the interviews and FGDs for the children, youth and adults were gathered separately from one another.

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At the city level, a total of 11 representatives from various departments were involved in the FGD. From the said figure, 6 are male while 5 are female. The table below presents a summary of city-level respondents: City

Method

Tools

Department

SAN JUAN CITY

Focus Group Discussion

• Main Sources of Harm to Children and Youth + Ranking • Accounts in Dealing with Child Protection • Child Protection Definition • Barriers and Challenges that impede Child Protection • Recommendations to improve Child Protection Mechanisms

Office of the City Councilor Philippine National Police City Social Welfare and Development Office City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) Department of Interior and Local Government Total

F 1

Sex

M

4 1 2

1

1

1

5

6

11

At the barangay level, the research team engaged a total of 36 participants. The table below presents a summary of barangay-level respondents: Barangay CORAZON DE JESUS

Method Focus Group Discussion

Tools • Main Sources of Harm to Children and Youth • Illustrating Harms and Providing • Child Protection Definition • Picture Frame Game: Challenges and Recommendations

Organization Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) Barangay Council Member Barangay Staff Women and Children’s Protection Desk Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) Barangay Peace and Security Officers (BPSO) Youth Organizations School teachers (including SPED) Parents Persons with disabilities

Sex F M 0 0

1

0

0

1

1 1

1 0

1

0

0

1

1 0

0 0

0 0

0 0

162

Barangay

Method

Tools

Organization School children, Out-ofschool children, Children-withdisabilities High school/Youth, Out-of-school youth, Youth-with-disabilities, LGBT Youth Home Owners Organizations (HOAs) Faith-based organizations Total

Barangay WEST CRAME

Method Focus Group Discussion

Tools • Main Sources of Harm to Children and Youth • Illustrating Harms and Providing • Child Protection Definition • Picture Frame Game: Challenges and Recommendations

Organization Barangay Council for the Protection of Children (BCPC) Barangay Staff Barangay Council Member BDRRMC Women and Children’s Desk Barangay Health Workers Barangay Peace and Security Officers Youth Organizations School teachers (including SPED) Parents Persons with disabilities School children, Out-ofschool children, Children-withdisabilities High school/Youth, Out-of-school youth, Youth-with-disabilities Home Owners Organizations (HOAs)

Sex F M 0 0

4

8

2

0

0

0

11

11

22

Sex F M 0 0

2 1

1 1

0 1

0 0

1

0

0

2

0 0

0 0

2

0 0

2

0

0

2

0

0

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Barangay

Method

Tools

Organization Faith-based organizations Women’s organization IP organization Total

Sex F M 0 0 0 0 8

14

0 0 6

III. Sources of Harm to Children and Youth A.

CITY

The following table lists the main sources of harm to children and youth as identified by the stakeholders from the city level including representatives from the CSWCD, CDRRMO, DILG, Councilor’s Office, and PNP. Household • • • • • • •

Problems within the family Poverty Lack of knowledge and awareness Bullying Social media Gender issues Education

School • • • • • •

Peer (barkada) influence and pressure Bullying Gender issues Social Media Traditional education Drug use and other vices

Barangay • • • • •

Environment Bullying Peer (barkada) influence and pressure Criminal activities Barangay’s lack of support and knowledge on child protection

Intergenerational Poverty and Difficulties within the Family One of the overarching sources of harm in San Juan is the cycle of poverty that transcends family generations. It is this intergenerational poverty that make escaping from everyday risks difficult for the community members as perceived by those that manage local government affairs from the city level.

Problems that exist within the family include lack of communication and interaction with the parents, inferiority complex22, middle child syndrome23, vices of parents and the family, low socioeconomic status, lack of family values, and lack of education within the family.

According to Encyclopedia Britannica, an inferiority complex is “a psychological sense of inferiority that is wholly or partly unconscious.” (https://www.britannica.com/science/inferioritycomplex) 23 According to Katrin Schumann (2012), the “middle child syndrome” is a stereotype for children from middle birth orders. She points out a study from the Stanford University that has revealed that these children are considered “the most envious, least bold, and least talkative of all the birth orders.” (https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/field-guide-families/201210/the-secret-powersmiddle-children) 22

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Lack of Barangay capacity The respondents also shared that the barangay has a lack of knowledge and awareness on child protection mechanisms, lack of knowledge of laws and ordinances, and they implement the wrong projects. They also perceive the lack of knowledge of barangay officials regarding laws and ordinances pertinent to child protection.

Issues within the school setting Traditional teaching methods are frowned upon by the respondents. For them, teachers are seen as agents of change who should be creative and resourceful, and must not resort to punishments in order to discipline the child. Within the school setting, the following problems still exist: bullying, gender issues – difficulty in fitting in, discrimination within the school, going with the wrong barkada and getting involved in vices. Criminal activities and drug abuse among the youth are rampant in school and within the community as well.

The respondents also note that the adverse effects of social media to children and youths are also rampant within the school settings. They view social media as a tool for peer pressure and cyberbullying, an extension of the harms that they face in their day-to-day school and community interactions.

B.

BARANGAY

Corazon de Jesus

Adults Main sources of harm

Causes of harm Effect of harm

Household Problems within the family Abandonment Delinquency Peer influence

School Bullying • Drugs use and other • vices • •

Barangay • • Child abuse • Bullying • Gambling • Drug use and other • vices • Teenage pregnancy • Peer influence • Parents/guardians • Fellow students • Tropa / barkada • Relatives • Teachers/staff • Neighbors The following harms were identified to be cross-cutting among the levels: • Rebellion • Attitude problem – disrespectful, they run away from home • Increase in OSY population – data needed • Sometimes, children and youth are diagnosed with depression • No respect to authority

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Ranking of Harms: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Neglectful parents Child abuse Peer influence Gambling Drugs

Parental neglect and family issues The respondents shared that parental neglect is one of the biggest issues in San Juan. They put a high regard to the “completeness” of the family – hence viewing the family system as that which consists of the father, mother and siblings. With that said, they believe that children who grew up from families with single parents become rebellious, since having only one parent means that children’s needs are not addressed better, compared to families that have both parents intact. The respondents also shared that there are cases in the barangays where children born out of wedlock are abandoned by single parents who are not yet ready to have children. Because of this, they view teenage parenthood and single-parenthood as harms that must be addressed in order to protect children and youth from continuing the cycle of neglect.

Delinquency among youth Delinquency among children and youths is very common in San Juan. Wirings of Public Address Systems, and CCTV cameras are destroyed by children and youth so that they do not get caught when they commit offenses in areas where PAs and CCTVs are present. The respondents reveal that these delinquent youths and children have no one to talk to because their families suffer from bigger, more imminent problems, and would rather give attention to these problems than the youth or child himself. The children and youth would then prefer to embrace their friends who influence them. Children with guardians who don't guide them well – fall deeper into delinquency. Children in conflict with the law (CICL) is also a problem in the barangay – some children hurt themselves, and lie to the authorities, telling them that their wounds were a result of being abused by a peace officer in the barangay. They do this so they won't get caught, and the other barangays are trying to prevent these cases from getting worse. There are also children who are already shoplifters at the age of 14-17 years old, and they get caught as well.

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Bullying in schools Bullying is also rampant in schools. Verbal, cyberbullying, physical bullying are among those practiced. These offenses are mostly coming from the teachers and students themselves. This happens in the Elementary and High school (HS) levels.

Drugs and other vices In the Barangay, gambling is a source of harm. Early on, children learn how to play “karakrus”24 and “tanching”25, and evolve into serious gambling, as they learn it from adults in the community. Children and youths get invited to drink, smoke, and steal by adults and other peer influences.

Apart from imitating adults who use drugs, children and youths are also used as “bridges” to sell drugs. According to the respondents, children are used by adult sellers to deliver and sell drugs in the communities because they are less likely to get caught. Among the most vulnerable from these activities are children from ages 12-15 years old, with most of them boys. There are also occurrences of drug use – specifically marijuana in elementary and high schools, but the numbers are unknown.

According to the respondents, the number of drug users decreased already since the policy of the Oplan Tokhang has been implemented. Derived from the term “katok”, or “to knock”, the Oplan Tokhang is a policy of the current administration that aims to lessen drug abuse and drug pushing through “knocking on doors” of known sellers and pushers in the community. This is premised on the idea that community members themselves know more about their neighbors because of trust and social bond. The Tokhang “warns” drug addicts and pushers about their crimes, hence a soft plead to make them stop. If they do not take this chance to repent, they will be incarcerated. According to the respondents, a lot of people used drugs before, but they decreased since the Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte took power in 2016. The drug pushers are the ones who are usually killed. As of the time of writing, seven (7) have already died, two (2) have been sick from drug abuse, and five (5) of them were pushers. For the people of Corazon de Jesus, the Tokhang is being misinterpreted. They believe that Oplan Tokhang is meant to be a solution to the drug abuse and drug selling in the community, and not a source of fear. Today, the community members are very scared about it, especially because of the killings. Although they pose concern about the killings, they believe that the policy of Oplan Tokhang is something that

Karakrus is a coin toss game. The players will determine whether the winning coin is “heads” or “tails”. The players will then place their bets. Whoever wins the bet will get the coin 25 Tanching is a game played by children in the Philippines where they would draw a large circle on the ground with chalk or stone and place their toys, cards, or any item of choice inside the figure.

They would then take turns, using a “pamalo” (an item for throwing) to hit the toys inside the circle with great force, so that the items would be displaced and moved out of the circle. Whoever gets to displace as many items from the drawn circle would win.

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needed to be done. A symposium for families of drug addicts is present in the barangay to dispel myths about it, so that they will not become scared or become “victims” of Tokhang.

Crisis situations The respondents also mention that although the risks to children and youth increase during disaster situations, child abuse cases from parents lessen during crisis, since parents take initiative in the family to try to save their children and make them feel safe.

Youth • • • • •

Household Poverty Child abuse Lack of discipline among children Conflict between the parents Use of drugs by adults

• • •

• • •

School Peer (barkada) influence Cutting classes Ineffective teaching methods, terrorizing of students Lack of discipline among children Children getting into fights Bullying

• •

•

Barangay Lack of discipline among children Disobedience of barangay ordinances, especially the curfew Lack of respect to authority

Ranking of Harms: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Bullying Family problems Lack of communication between adults and children Drugs Disobedience of barangay ordinances

Intergenerational poverty and difficulties within the family For the youth respondents, they have echoed that intergenerational poverty is present in their community. They believe that children “inherit” the socio-economic status of their families, hence causing conflict among their own families as they grow up, as problems brought about by poverty become a problem. Some children and youth who get pregnant early are not ready to have children, and this lack of preparedness make them unfit parents who do not know how to properly care for their own children. The use of drugs by adults, misunderstandings between children and adults, physical harm towards the children – are among the strong indicators of family problems. They also mention that adults should be good examples to children, especially in the family setting. This can help reduce the propensity for intergenerational poverty.

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Youth delinquency, bullying and proper education Within the school setting, fighting and bullying are rampant occurrences. The students often cut classes, and they do not take important issues seriously, such as earthquake drills and other events hosted by the school. This stems from the lack of discipline among them and also because of ineffective teaching methods from teachers. The respondents voiced out that teaching the same thing to children with different skills and kinds of intelligence is harmful. The teaching methods should be tailor fitted to the child’s needs and abilities.

They also voiced out that teachers have the responsibility to discipline and protect the child.

Discipline within the barangay The respondents emphasized discipline as important in the barangay. Disobedience to those in authority and lack of discipline are the two main sources of conflict between children and barangay workers.

West Crame

Adults • • •

Household Problems within the family Irresponsible parents/guardians Attitude problems among the youth

• • • •

School Bullying Disobedience to authority – teachers Bullying Peer influence

• • • •

Barangay Drug use and other vices Peer pressure and influence Early pregnancy Disobedience to authority – Barangay officials

Ranking Harms: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Poverty Family problems: Broken family Bullying (physical and verbal) Drugs (13-15 years old – and older: alcohol, gambling, other vices) Early pregnancy (as early as 12 years old)

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Problems within the family In West Crame, harms within the family setting include: children answering back to elders, parents being neglectful of their children, and children being disobedient and hard headed.

It is also mentioned that children commonly fight with their parents, especially when there is lack of communication between them, causing disagreements. Another common source of harm is when parents separate. The breakdown of the traditional family structure is seen as a cause of family problems and neglect. Also seen as problems are bad habits of children in the household – when children are always watching TV and playing with their tablets.

Bullying in schools In schools, bullying is rampant. The respondents see this as children “bringing with them” the problems they have from their homes. They also disobey teachers and elders because of this. Moreover, students get influenced by their own classmates as well. Peer pressure and getting into the wrong barkada are some of the causes of bullying. Some cases of strictness of teachers are also seen as harms towards children and youth.

Drug abuse and peer influence Drug abuse for both children and adults is common in the barangay, starting at teens aged 13 years old. When children get into the wrong barkada or group of friends, they get pressured by their peers to learn vices like smoking and drinking. This escalates into different kinds of vices, such as drug abuse. Another result of peer influence is early pregnancy. When children and youth begin to spend time with the wrong crowd, especially those that involve themselves in risky behavior, they begin to care less of their actions.

Teen pregnancy happens when they do not care for the consequences of their actions, especially when they are not informed about contraception and sex education.

The respondents share that their problems are more or less the same during times of disaster.

Parental influence The youths in the barangay are disobedient to the barangay officials, and sometimes, this is also caused by the parents. Some cases have been reported of parents filing cases against peace officers in the barangay, and other parties – taking advantage of their child’s age and vulnerability. This was reportedly done so the parents can earn money from the suit, as they know very well that children will not get incarcerated because they are young.

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Youth Household • Lack of discipline • Fires • Corporal punishment from family members

School • Bullying • Strict teachers

Barangay • Drugs use and other vices from adults and youth • Membership in gangs • Discrimination against persons with disabilities

Ranking of Harms: 1.

2.

3.

Drugs Bullying Disobedience

There is considerably a lack of participation from the youths of West Crame. Organizing their youths has been a difficult process for the researchers in part because they are not a cohesive group. For the respondents who were able to join the FGD, they had difficulty speaking up and expressing their thoughts, as they were distracted and inattentive.

However, their responses reflected the experiences of the adults, validating the data gathered from the FGD with the barangay level adult respondents. According to the youths interviewed, drug use and vices are experienced by children and youths starting from ages 14-17 years. According to them, they get into vices because they imitate the adults around them who do the same. Another similar account is bullying as another common experience in schools.

IV. Mechanisms to Address Harm A.

CITY

Information dissemination on child protection through IEC materials (Information, Communication and Education materials) The city government expressed the need for IEC materials specifically on child protection – to be available for dissemination among parents and families. This would respond to the gap posed by lack of awareness regarding child protection mechanisms among children, youth, families and teachers in the barangay. Advocacy campaigns using these materials can also be done by the barangays and the schools.

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Values formation Seminars, trainings, and lectures that target values formation for the youths are important so that they are able to overcome their delinquency, especially when they have been influenced by peers to get into vices like alcoholism, drugs, and gambling. The representatives from the city level see values formation as a way to bridge the generational gap between adults and youth, as these interventions would allow children and youths to empathize more with their parents on why they make such decisions to discipline the child.

Implementation of Child Protection through laws and policies Another mechanism seen by the stakeholders is the implementation of child protection mechanisms through laws and policies such as the Anti-Bullying Act. The Seal of Child Friendliness is seen to act as an incentive for local governments to be more active in child protection as well.

Stakeholders in implementation • • • • • • • • •

Barangay City Social Welfare and Development Office Schools Philippine National Police Task Force on Youth Development Family Department of Education Department of Social Welfare and Development Parents and Teachers Association

Roles and responsibility The respondents remarked that the roles and responsibility of taking care of children and youth must be shared by all the stakeholders – the municipality and barangay local governments, the schools, and the families. Some of their responsibilities include the implementation of programs for youth, strengthening of youth education, and strengthening the resilience of the youth by creating a good moral values foundation. Apart from that, education is also seen as a good backbone for children’s development as well, especially early childhood development specifically in barangays. They also suggested that parents have a more proactive role in the community in helping shape and guide the values of children. IEC materials were stressed as an important medium in sharing these information, while formulating new policies and projects are also seen as a way forward.

Despite being a responsibility of all stakeholders, the respondents believe in the capacity

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of schools to be an important leader in taking on the responsibility of child protection in the community.

B.

BARANGAY

Corazon de Jesus

Adults Laws • Executive Order Establishing the Barangay Child Protection Council (BCPC)

Capacity building • Regular trainings, seminars and counselling • Mother class

Public Information Materials

Projects

• Posters, tarpaulins, and social media information regarding the harms of cigarette smoking • Facebook page of the barangay captain • PA system

• GKA (Guhit, Kulay at iba pa) • Red Cross youth leadership training • Response, camp management and first aid for youth • Barangay Ugnayan • Curfew (10-4am) • Non-selling of cigarettes to youth • Teen sexuality seminar • African Hito livelihood program

Some of the notable mechanisms of Barangay Corazon de Jesus are the following: Mother class - the respondents explained that “Mother class” is a lecture on parenthood, health, and sanitation conducted by the Cardinal Santos Hospital of San Juan for expectant mothers. The class also include free checkup for outpatients as part of its benefits.

There is also a teen sexuality seminar in the barangay, which is separate from the Mother class. This on the other hand targets teens who are single and not yet pregnant.

GKA (Guhit, Kulay, At iba pa) - This program targets previous “bullies” and “delinquents”, by involving them in values formation seminars, honing their talents in singing, dancing and theatre as a form of rehabilitation. They spend time out of town with a group of youths in their barangays, together with their facilitators from PETA to bond and learn from one another.

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Red Cross youth leadership training - this leadership training is conducted by the Red Cross towards youths, to empower them through training them in basic life support skills. This makes them knowledgeable in basic life skills like swimming and first aid, better equipping them to protect themselves during emergencies and disaster situations.

Response, camp management, and first aid for youth - this seminar trains the youths on response activities, so that they can be future responders in their own barangay and families. The intensity of seminar increases, as one progresses from each module. Because of this program, some of the youths who have finished the module have become registered volunteers after their leadership training. Others became instructors as well.

Barangay Ugnayan - the Barangay Ugnayan is a per sitio26 forum regarding drug awareness.

These campaigns tackle and discuss drug-related concerns within the barangay and the whole city. The goal of the Ugnayan is to inform the people of the barangay about the adverse effects of drug abuse and its consequences under the law. It also aims to dispel fear among the community members regarding the stereotypes on the Oplan Tokhang policy – such as the policy being harmful to the people instead of helpful. This program involves everyone in the barangay, including children and youth.

Apart from the Barangay Ugnayan, there is also a free, twelve (12) day rehabilitation program in the barangay for those who surrender as drug addicts.

Barangay Curfew for children and youth - the barangay currently imposes a curfew for children and youths from 10pm to 4am. At this hour, they are not allowed to roam around the barangay for no reason, unless accompanied by their parents or guardians. If not, their parents are called to the barangay for reprimanding. This “shaming system” according to the respondents, work because the children’s parents respond to this kind of policy by making sure it never happens again.

Non-selling of cigarettes policy for minors - Barangay Corazon de Jesus bans cigarette purchase from minors (18 years old and below) for any reason and any occasion, in any store within the barangay.

African Hito urban fish pond livelihood program – the livelihood program is targeted for people who have declared their surrender to the barangay as drug addicts under the Oplan Tokhang policy. Those who join are in charge with cleaning of the ponds, feeding of the fish, and over-all care for the African Hito fishes. This program serves as a form of rehabilitation for those who surrendered, especially for pushers who have no employment to turn to after their surrender. This program is a way for the barangay to reintegrate those who have surrender, and involve them in community building.

sitios are “areas” within the barangay – they are sub divisions within the barangay system that comprise a combined unit.

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Youth Some of the mechanisms dealing with child protection, as mentioned by the youth, are the following: Various, existing policies applicable to the barangay level - the children and youth respondents echoed some of the existing policies in the national level applicable to the barangay level, such as the Department of Education Child Protection Policy and the Oplan Tokhang, and also the existing drug rehabilitation program in the barangay as some of the existing mechanisms to address the harms toward children and youth.

Change in values regarding forming families - according to the youth, as problems in the child’s development stem from the family, then the mechanisms to address their problems should also come from the level of the family as well. Given the difficulties experienced in the barangay, including living in poverty, the children and youth must think it through before they start their own families. They believe that responsible parenthood is one of the most important mechanisms in child protection, hence risky sexual behavior that would lead to teenage pregnancy should be avoided. And this can be done by making sure that children are inculcated with the right values early on.

Stricter implementation of ordinances - the youths in the barangay expressed that apart from the presence of policies, what is also important is the attitude of those implementing it. They believe that a stricter implementation is better for the children and youths in the barangay to learn how to become more disciplined. For them, when the implementers are stricter, they are more respected and are given more authority of the children and youth.

Barangay West Crame

Adults

Laws

Capacity building

• RA 7610 • RA 9344 • Barangay ordinance forbidding drinking in the street • Internet café policies for children and youths • Curfew • Karaoke curfew

• Capacity building on the following laws: -RA 7610 (VAWC) -RA 10360 (CICL) -Child Protection • Psychosocial support • Gender and development trainings

Public Information Materials • IEC regarding curfew • PA system • Announcement during flag ceremony

Projects • Livelihood programs and trainings • Curfew of minors • Livelihood programs • Augmentation of AHYD program in the City • Drug counselling

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Laws • Prohibition of shirtless or naked people

Capacity building • • • •

Public Information Materials

Projects

Mother class Lakbay Aral Leadership training Health seminars: -AIDs forum -Dengue protection -TB seminar

Various barangay ordinances for protecting women and children - there are various national level ordinances mentioned by the adult responses that are applicable to the barangay level that protect women and children. Some of them include: RA 7610 or the Anti Violence Against Women and Children Law, Anti-bullying Act, and RA 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006.

Various forms of curfew - as mentioned by the respondents, the curfew for minors from 10pm-4am is also imposed in Barangay West Crame. They cannot loiter in the middle of the night without their parents. Also mentioned is a curfew for households in the barangay regarding karaoke playing – they are not allowed to play loud music from 10pm until the rest of the night. For internet cafés, the rule stipulates that in the barangay, children in their school uniforms are not allowed to enter the establishment, especially during class hours in the week days.

Capacity building programs relating to health - the barangay respondents reveal that there are various capacity building efforts in the barangay that relate to health, such as forums on AIDs, Dengue Protection seminars, Tuberculosis Awareness forums, and also psychological support and counseling for those suffering psychological conditions.

Ordinances that encourage good behaviors in the barangay - there are ordinances that encourage good behaviors in the barangays, including an ordinance that forbids drinking in the streets, as well as prohibiting shirtless or naked people along the streets.

Capacity building sessions on reproductive health - there are various capacity building efforts from the barangay relating to reproductive health and responsible parenthood. Like Barangay Corazon de Jesus, West Crame also have Mother classes, and sessions on responsible parenthood both for mothers and youths. Trainings from the Gender and Development (GAD) council are also available, as well as Adolescent Health and Youth Development (AHYD) led trainings on early pregnancies.

Leadership, livelihood and education - in the barangay, livelihood seminars also abound, provided by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Some of their trainings include food processing, candle making, barista training, baking, massage therapist training, and electronics training. Lakbay Aral is also a good opportunity for children of Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) families to be exposed to the culture of the

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Philippines through education. Counseling and leadership trainings organized by the Catholic church are also present for the children in the barangay.

Youth The children mention the school setting, where lectures and information dissemination can take place for children and youth, as a mechanism in dealing with child protection in the barangay.

There has been a difficulty in extracting information from the children of West Crame regarding the mechanisms in the barangay level. Despite the various projects and programs mentioned by the adults that protect children and youth, they mentioned that they are not very knowledgeable on that since they are not active in barangay activities.

V. Definition of Child Protection The city and barangay levels all expressed a rights-based understanding of what child protection is. Among the common themes they discussed include defining child protection as “guiding the children”. With the family, community, and state acting as the “guide”.

Assuring that children have food, shelter and basic necessities is also one indicator of child protection as expressed by children and adults. They also believe that children should not be hurt or abused by adults, instead, they should be cared for. More importantly they stress the access of children to proper education as an indicator of child protection. Also, children should have the freedom to be themselves, but at the same time have guidance from dutybearers.

VI. Challenges A.

CITY

In the city level, budget is a main challenge and concern of the duty bearers. They expressed that without budget, they will not be able to conduct more capacity development and various trainings spread out in the barangay. Participation of the children are also important. They stress that children’s involvement in creating better projects and policies for themselves are good ways to make sure that the project will be successful. Another problem related to this is the lack of interest among the children and youth when it comes to child protection policymaking and barangay level involvement. They stress that the youth of today are so distracted with other hobbies and interests that they forget that they are part of a community.

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On the part of the duty-bearers, political will and proper implementation are important aspects of making sure that the policies and projects for the children are effective. They stress these as challenges, as they believe that this is not yet present among the implementers in both the city and barangay levels. Sustainability, as well as proper monitoring and implementation of child protection policies are also considered as challenges. In general, the respondents notice that policies have a lack of monitoring and evaluation and sustainability focus. Most of the time, the focus is on the implementation, while forgetting the importance of sustainability.

B.

BARANGAY

Corazon de Jesus

Adults For Barangay Corazon de Jesus, they stress that budget and financial constraints are the primary challenges the barangay is facing. Consistent with the responses from the city level, they also shared that they could not create more projects and programs relating to child protection without funding and budget. The lack of seminars and trainings for adults and duty-bearers regarding child protection in the barangay also make it difficult for them to formulate solutions regarding the identified harms in the community. It also makes them less knowledgeable on the laws, policies and programs present that the barangay that they can utilize and take advantage of to promote child protection. Among some of the dutybearers they identified who should receive proper training are barangay officials, those in charge for the Women and Child Protection Desk (WCPD), barangay staff, and peace officers.

Another challenge for the adults in Barangay Corazon de Jesus is community participation.

According to them, the participation of the whole community, including the adults and children – are important indicators for the success of child protection policies. Without this these programs would not be successful. However, today, this is happening and it must be addressed.

Lastly, the adults of the barangay stress that the children and youth are abusing the protection granted upon them by law by committing crimes at such a young age below (15 years old) such that they are not punished and can get away with it. The adults believe that a stricter implementation of existing barangay ordinances are important, as well as the lowering of the age of criminal responsibility – an issue that is currently in vogue in Philippine law enforcement at the moment, as there are moves to lower it from fourteen (14) to nine (9) years of age.

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Youth In Barangay Corazon de Jesus, bullying is a major challenge faced by children and youth.

They experience this from different levels – in the school and in the community, because of peer influences and influences from the adults. Apart from this, family problems also serve as a challenge. For them, family problems arise from unpreparedness in having children. This usually happens when youths get pregnant early or out of wedlock, as they are financially, emotionally and physically unable to prepare for the difficulties of child bearing and child-rearing. The presence of single parent families becomes difficult especially because of poverty, which causes conflicts and family problems.

Drugs is also a problem for the youths of Corazon de Jesus. Drug use and drug pushing is usually perpetrated by syndicates who prey on children and youths both as sellers and users of drugs. Disobedience of barangay ordinances is also a challenge because it is prevalent among youths. This is the reason why there are new policies in the barangay like curfews – it makes children and youth obey the law.

West Crame

Adults Consistent with the responses of the adults in Corazon de Jesus, the adults also expressed that the main challenge they experience is lack of budget for projects and programs regarding child protection. Apart from this, the adults also mentioned that there is a general lack of awareness in the community regarding what child protection is and the programs and projects related to it.

They also expressed that there is a lack of discipline among the children and youth in the community, and it is a problem because even when there are existing policies for children and youth, the lack of discipline make implementation harder for the barangay. On the part of the implementers, the adults believe that the tanods or the barangay peace officers should have some sort of “protection” from being blamed or being physically hurt when they would deal with delinquent youths. Based on the experience of the barangay workers, they have encountered youths who are violent towards tanods when they get caught committing petty crimes. Although the adults do not know yet what specific kind of protection they need, they believe that it could be deliberated and it can be resolved through agreement and discussion. In other cases, the children run away from police officials and tanods whenever they get caught with petty crimes. However, when they get hurt in the process of escape, the officials are the ones who are blamed for this, and the children and youth get away with it. On the other hand, there are cases wherein children

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are “turned into a business” – adults like parents and syndicates use these children’s minor status as a way for them to extract money from third party individuals whom they would accuse as abusive and violent towards these children. As a result, they would file cases in the court against them and demand for financial compensation.

These instances are a form of exploitation towards children, and the adults also mentioned this as one of their biggest challenges in the barangay, as there are many forms of exploitation that happen towards children and youth perpetrated by adults in the family, school and community setting.

Youth Although mentioning that drugs, bullying and disobedience are their identified harms, the youths of West Crame are not able to expound on the characteristics of these challenges.

The youth of West Crame are not very open when it comes to discussing the challenges they experience in the barangay. They are not very outspoken and they preferred to play sports instead of participating in community-led activities. Because of this, the researchers had a difficulty in accessing information regarding the challenges they experience.

VII. Recommendations A.

CITY

Based on the harms, challenges and mechanisms the adults of San Juan city have identified, they have recommended the improvement of the implementation of existing child protection mechanisms. More importantly, they recommend additional funding for the improvement of its implementation and additional programs and projects that support child protection. To do this, proper coordination among the stakeholders have been identified as a means. Through coordinating with the different departments in the city level pertaining to social welfare, health, and security, child protection can be mainstreamed and applied at all aspects of a child’s welfare and development.

In order to do this, political will is important, as it is the driver of the improvement in implementation and better coordination. In addition to this, the conduct of monitoring and evaluation as well as ensuring the sustainability of existing and future child protection mechanisms, projects and policies are also recommended. Lastly, information dissemination regarding child protection should continue, as well as capacity development and dialogues for its improvement.

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B.

BARANGAY

Corazon de Jesus

Adults In Barangay Corazon de Jesus, they recommended bigger funding for the Barangay Child Protection Council (BCPC) in order to have more mobility in terms of the improvement of the implementation of child protection projects, programs and policies. To improve the capacity of duty-bearers, the adults suggested that laws and policies regarding children be studied and improved more intently by the duty bearers, so as to clarify the rules and responsibilities of the implementers and the rights of the children, especially under the context of a growing number of children in conflict with the law.

They also suggested adding partner non-government organizations as partners and support for more capacity development, seminars, and trainings in child protection.

Youth For the youth of barangay Corazon de Jesus, they have recommended an improvement in terms of the “guidance� towards children and youth for all aspects of their development and growth in the community – in terms of education, family, school, and community life.

Although not delving deeply into their meaning of guidance, they stress a more moralsbased, value-laden approach in going about it. More information for children and youth regarding child protection was also pointed out by the youth of Corazon de Jesus. This can be done in the form of IEC materials posted in schools and all over the community.

The youth also discussed that there should be a way for children to steer clear from drugs, especially as they view the present situation as precarious for children and youth. In terms of the specific aspects regarding lessening drug use and drug selling, the youth interviewed did not specify what kind of policy program they need. Lastly, the youth recommended that children and youth should have more forms of assistance for graduating in school through scholarships and financial assistance.

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West Crame

Adults For Barangay West Crame, the adults recommended lowering the age of criminal responsibility as a means to more strictly implement the laws regarding children. This is seen as a way to make delinquent children more disciplined and prevent recidivism. In addition, review of barangay ordinances regarding child protection was recommended, in order to assess the applicability and effectiveness of existing child protection policies in the barangay. They also recommend increase in barangay funding for the Barangay Child Protection Council. Livelihood programs are also recommended, especially for Out of School Youths (OSY), who can benefit from employment, as it would keep them productive.

Production of IEC materials have also been recommended by the adults of West Crame as a means to disseminate information regarding child protection.

A Mini-Ugnayan especially catering for children and youths was recommended. This would facilitate dialogue among the children and youth, and the various stakeholders in child protection and drug-related concerns. Through this Ugnayan, the barangay can identify the concerns of the children and youth when it comes to drug use, especially its effects under the Oplan Tokhang policy.

The adults also recommend the attendance of the community members – whether adults and children, in the General Assembly organized by the barangay so that they will be informed and knowledgeable on the new and existing ordinances, projects and programs in the barangay.

Youth The youth of Barangay West Crame recommends the improvement of rehabilitation efforts for children and youth who are addicted to drugs, but also more importantly, they recommend tighter disciplinary measures for children and youth in all settings – the family life, school settings, and community settings. One of the ways through which this can be done is through the increase in police presence in the barangay, especially in areas where children are known to be delinquent.

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References:

An Act Converting the Municipality of San Juan into a Highly Urbanized City (Republic Act 9388)

Center for Disaster Preparedness and Plan International-Philippines (2015). Strengthening Resilience to Disasters among Vulnerable Urban Poor Communities in Manila, Philippines Research Report. Manila: Plan International.

About San Juan (2016). Retrieved on March 2016. Available at: http://www.sanjuancity.gov.ph/index.php/about-us

Plans and Programs in San Juan (2016). Retrieved on March 2016. Available at: http://klearn.adb.org/system/files/materials/2012/04/plans-and-programs-san-juan-river-andcreeks.pdf