Government, NGOs unite vs child marriage in PH

By: Angeline Marcelino - 12 months ago

[Representatives of different groups unite on the launch of the “Bridging Information Gap on Prohibition of Child Marriage Law Project” on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023. Photo from Oxfam Pilipinas.]

MANILA, Philippines — Various government agencies, civil society organizations, and youth groups have come together to support the implementation of the law banning child marriage in the Philippines, a confederation announced on Saturday.

Oxfam Pilipinas, during the launch of the “Bridging Information Gap on Prohibition of Child Marriage Law Project,” emphasized the need for broader information dissemination and enforcement of Republic Act 11596.

The confederation, in partnership with the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD), is working to address the information dissemination gap concerning the PCM Law and its implementing rules and regulations.

Information gap

PLCPD’s Executive Director Rom Dongeto highlighted the urgency of implementing the law.

“Now that we have the law, we must act with even more urgency to fully implement it so that every girl’s right to protection is fulfilled. We need to work together to bridge the information gap on the law’s provisions and programs,” he said.

“The Bridging Information Gap or BIG Project is one of the platforms we have to help in the law’s implementation,” Dongeto added.

Oxfam noted that it and PLCPD are part of the Girl Defenders, an alliance advocating for the law’s enactment and full implementation since 2017.

Socorro ‘cult’ case

Regarding the Socorro “cult” case, Oxfam linked the 18-day campaign to end violence against women to the prosecution of Socorro leaders and members who facilitated forced marriages among minors in Surigao del Norte.

Jeanette Kindipan-Dulawan, Oxfam Pilipinas Gender Justice Portfolio manager, stressed the importance of enforcing the law to protect girls’ rights.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Atty. Elaine F. Fallarcuna emphasized the need for interventions for child marriage victims-survivors, mentioning DSWD’s efforts in providing care and crafting specific programs and services.

The event also included commitments from various stakeholders, including the Bangsamoro government. Member of Parliament Atty. Laisa Alamia declared their commitment to ending child marriage, underscoring the importance of protecting the rights of women and children while respecting religious and cultural diversity.