The youth plays an important role in disseminating and producing important information concerning the COVID-19 through mainstream online methods, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said.
Because of their technical savvy, CHR spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline de Guia said that the youth have a "powerful voice" and their participation in current events and issue are helping shape the future.
"Despite quarantine restrictions, we have witnessed how the young people are able to contribute through organizing and joining volunteer work; leading or taking part in donation drives; and utilizing their skills and talent to extend help to those who need it most," said De Guia.
Many young individuals have even come up with innovative ways to help others despite quarantine restrictions and they also ventured into social enterprise to deal with the economic impact of the pandemic.
"The idealism, energy, and enthusiasm of the youth enable them to take action, participate in various initiatives, as well as speak out on pressing issues," De Guia said.
Their education have been put to a halt, and their futures delayed because of the pandemic. Some have been pushed further into poverty and compounding vulnerability. However, the CHR said that their "youthful resilience" keeps them going.
"To truly recognize the importance of the youth, we must ensure that we build up their capacity to make their own decisions and to take certain responsibilities that will harness their potential," said De Guia.
"It is crucial to create safe spaces where they can freely speak, be heard, and actively participate. The youth must be fully engaged in all matters that impact them during this period of health crisis and beyond, towards an inclusive recovery and to ensure their social development," she added.