Group warns against child abuses during ECQ enforcement

MANILA, Philippines — The Child Rights Network (CRN) warned Thursday on abuse against children while the government enforces quarantine protocols during the COVID-19 crisis.

In a statement, the child rights groups called out local government officials’ “drastic measures” to keep residents in their homes.

“Enforcement of drastic measures that aim to restrict people’s mobility, such as ECQ, has resulted in unjust and patently illegal acts, and in this regard, we express our utmost concern,” read the statement.

CRN said it received reports of violations against children in Luzon such as putting “children in a dog cage in Laguna and inside a coffin in Cavite.“

Children are being punished for violating curfew hours or other quarantine protocols, CRN said.

“We believe that many more cruel and inhumane measures are being imposed and such incidents go unreported, especially in far-flung communities,” CRN said.

CRN also urged the public to report child rights violations through these hotlines:

– Bantay Bata 163 (toll-free call, dial #163)

– Philippine National Police – hotline 117 or to report directly to the Anti-Violence Against Women & Children Division, call the 24/7hotlines 09197777377 (Smart/PNP Aling Pulis Hotline) or 09667255961 (Globe) or the telephone number (8) 532-6690

– Commission on Human Rights – hotline (8) 294-8704 or mobile numbers 09360680982 (TM) or 09205061194(Smart), or e-mail reports to [email protected]

– Actionline Against Human Trafficking – 1343 for Metro Manila or (02) 1343 outside Metro Manila