The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Thursday, Jan. 9, welcomed the establishment of the Mahalin at Kalingain Ating mga Bata (Makabata) program.
Last December, President Marcos issued Executive Order (EO) No. 79 that creates the Makabata Hotline 1383 which, the CHR explained, “serves as a critical platform for the public to report child rights violations.”
“The Commission fully supports this initiative as it enhances the State’s obligation to protect the rights and welfare of children, as mandated under Section 2 of Republic Act No. 7610, the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act,” the CHR said in a statement.
“Furthermore, this initiative reaffirms the Philippines' commitment as a State Party to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which emphasizes that all actions concerning children should prioritize their best interests,” it said.
It also said: “The CHR is hopeful that the establishment of the Makabata program marks a significant step toward the proper development of our children and the realization of their full potential. The Commission firmly believes that by promoting and protecting the rights and welfare of children, we are not only preparing them for a brighter future but also contributing to the well-being and progress of their communities. By investing in the care and protection of our children, we are laying the foundation for a more just, compassionate, and sustainable society for generations to come."
It added that the Makabata program is a “one-stop system designed to address and monitor issues affecting children in need of special protection (CNSPs).”
“The program has key responsibilities such as receiving all kinds of reports related to CNSPs and referring them to the relevant agency, which includes local government units and private sector partners. It also ensures the immediate safety of children in danger, protects victims, and provides psychosocial, medical, and legal assistance,” it pointed out.
“Additionally, the program facilitates age-appropriate and gender-responsive support, education, skills development, legal services, and alternative care placements for victims. The program further works on reintegrating children into their families and communities through after-care services, community support networks, and long-term monitoring to ensure continued protection and well-being,” it stressed.