The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expressed its full support to Senate Bill (SB) 2633 on Magna Carta of the Out-of-Schoool Youth that would provide learning and employment opportunities, social services, and interventions.
In a statement, the CHR said that SB 2633 filed by Sen. Jose "Jinggoy" Estrada recognizes, protects, and promotes the right of the country's out-of-school youth.
It said that Estrada shared information information from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) that in 2022 nearly 20 percent of 42.18 million Filipino children aged five to 24 years old were not attending school.
Out-of-school youth group includes those aged 15 to 30 who are not enrolled in school, lack employment, and have not graduated from high school or college, the CHR said.
Through the bill, the country's out-of-school youth will be provided with vocational education and other training programs to equip them with the necessary knowledge, skills, and motivation for their involvement in public and civic affairs.
Aside from fully supporting SB 2633, the CHR urged other concerned agencies to create policies to support it.
"The Commission applauds the creation of SB 2633 for providing opportunities to empower the Filipino youth and to encourage initiatives which highlight their role in the enrichment of society," it said.
At the same time, the CHR said SB 2633 is aligned with Article II, Section 13 of the Constitution as it recognizes the youth’s role in nation-building, as well as promotes and protects their overall well-being.
It also said bill adheres to the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child by ensuring their right to education, right to protection, and right to participation.
"The Commission recognizes Senator Estrada’s initiative in introducing this bill which aims to address the vulnerabilities of the out-of-school youth sector. We urge the passage of SB 2633 as it will pave the way for the empowerment of young Filipinos. We believe that this legislation is crucial for creating a society where all youth, including those not in school, have equal opportunities to succeed," it added.