Childrens Month blog#1

The 2025 National Children’s Month theme highlights a critical reality of our time: children today face dangers not only in their physical surroundings but also in the digital world where exploitation can occur silently and invisibly. Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) remain among the gravest threats to child safety in the Philippines. As technology evolves, so must our vigilance, compassion, and collective commitment to protect every child.

This year’s theme calls on all sectors families, schools, communities, government, and digital platforms to take an active stand in ending OSAEC and CSAEM. Protecting children means ensuring that their rights are upheld at all times: the right to safety, dignity, participation, and a nurturing environment. Child protection is not merely a legal obligation but a moral responsibility that reflects the kind of society we aspire to be.

By empowering children with digital literacy, strengthening reporting systems, promoting responsible online behavior, and holding perpetrators accountable, we create an environment where children can thrive free from fear. National Children’s Month serves as a reminder that safeguarding children’s lives today secures the future of the nation. The call is clear and urgent: end exploitation, defend children’s rights, and uphold their safety online and offline.
References

1. Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC). National Children’s Month Annual Themes and Advocacy Materials.
2. Republic Act No. 11930. Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act of 2022.
3. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Child Protection Programs and OSAEC Prevention Framework.