Posted on by Council for the Welfare of Children

Pasig City, Philippines — The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) reaffirmed its commitment to child protection and online safety by supporting an advocacy activity organized by the Pasig City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) – Kanlungan sa Pasig on 12 February 2026 at the Temporary City Hall, Bridgetown, Barangay Rosario, Pasig City.

The activity formed part of the observance of the National Awareness Week for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation. It sought to strengthen participants’ capacity to safeguard children from abuse and exploitation, including online threats.Around 100 participants attended, including in-house residents and former residents of Kanlungan sa Pasig, as well as members of the Multi-Disciplinary Team for Case Management and the Child Protection Committee.

In support of the initiative, the CWC deployed three resource persons to facilitate discussions on key child protection concerns:

  • Anjelo A. Baybay led the session on Empowered Parenting in the Digital Age, highlighting the critical role of parents and caregivers in ensuring children’s safe and responsible use of digital platforms.
  • David John S. Vergara provided an orientation on Republic Act 11930 or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act, and digital safety, strengthening participants’ understanding of prevention, reporting mechanisms, and child protection laws.
  • Roanna Cathrice B. Cabalonga discussed the operationalization of the MAKABATA Helpline 1383, highlighting its function as a child-sensitive reporting and response mechanism for children in need of assistance and protection.

Through the discussions, the activity empowered stakeholders to better recognize offline and online risks, respond appropriately to cases of abuse and exploitation, and uphold the rights and welfare of children within their communities.

The CWC continues to work closely with local government units and partner institutions in strengthening child protection systems and ensuring safe and protective environments for children both offline and online.