In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, keeping children safe online is essential. Stairway Foundation and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently partnered to develop a Child Protection Policy (CPP) designed to safeguard millions of Filipino children, particularly those in the Philippine government’s 4Ps (poverty alleviation) Program. This new policy marks a step forward in protecting vulnerable children from online risks.
Responding to the Risks of the Digital Age
While the 4Ps program promotes child welfare, the digital age has introduced new dangers, especially Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC). Issues like cyberbullying, sexting, and online predators are among the growing threats. To address these, SFI and DSWD gathered in July for a Safeguarding Policy Writeshop, updating the DSWD Child Protection Policy to reflect today’s digital challenges. The writeshop brought together 27 regional Family Development Session (FDS) and Youth Development Session (YDS) leaders, case management officers, and DSWD staff. This collaboration strengthens the SFI-DSWD partnership, demonstrating a shared commitment to creating safer environments for children. “We are social workers whose main advocacy is to protect children and youth at all costs. This policy serves as our armor in promoting the best interests of Filipino children,” said Rosylyn Arnigo, Chief of the 4Ps Capability Building Division.
Empowering Frontline Workers through E-Learning
Alongside the updated CPP, SFI and DSWD launched a localized e-learning course on child protection for frontline workers in Region 8. Introduced in Manila on August 1, 2024, this course focuses on OSAEC and child sexual exploitation, equipping social workers with skills to recognize and address these risks. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. One participant shared, “This course has broadened our understanding and prepared us to better protect the children we serve.” The pilot, attended by nine technical staff and DSWD members, emphasized the broader SFI-DSWD partnership and the need to scale this training nationwide. “I hope we can replicate this course across the Philippines, safeguarding the welfare of all Filipino children,” expressed Rosalie D. Dagulo, Deputy Program Manager for Program Services and Interventions.
Including Children and Youth in Policy Development
Ensuring youth voices are heard is key to SFI’s mission. From August 10-11, 2024, 77 young participants met in Pasig City to contribute to the Draft Child Protection Policy Standard for Local Government Units (LGUs). Through interactive discussions and skits, they highlighted essential policy themes, including gender sensitivity training for LGU staff, social media guidelines, and specific codes of conduct for interactions with children. In their closing remarks, youth participants expressed gratitude for their involvement, urging peers to continue advocating for their rights and highlighting the importance of their voices in policy development.
Looking Forward: Expanding Child Protection Efforts
Following these initiatives, SFI and DSWD will engage further with LGUs to refine and test the Child Protection Policy Standard. Plans include a pilot program in select LGUs and a nationwide rollout with over a thousand LGUs, aiming to provide comprehensive child protection education and tools. These collective efforts represent significant progress toward a safer future, ensuring Filipino children are protected online and offline through partnerships, education, and empowerment.