PH has enough laws for kids’ welfare, but more needs to be done — Poe

Sen. Grace Poe —Senate PRIB file photo

MANILA, Philippines — The country already has laws and programs to take care of children’s health and nutrition, but “more needs to be done” for them, Senator Grace Poe said on Wednesday.

In line with National Children’s Month, Poe said that making children’s rights and well-being the front and center of development goals should be the standard.

According to the senator, the Philippines has laws for children. She cited the First 1,000 Days law, and the Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act, which facilitates school-based and supplemental feeding programs.

She further mentioned the Foundling Recognition and Protection Act, which provides foundlings with rights and protections.

However, Poe said in a statement that more is still needed for the welfare of the children.

She stressed how active children are on social media, and pointed out that schools should play a vital role in making sure that they engage responsibly and productively in the digital community.

READ: Protect children online

There is a pending bill to make social media awareness a part of the academic curriculum, she noted.

READ: National Children’s Month: Cause for celebration or worry?

Poe added that there is also a pending bill seeking to regulate class size and conditions in public schools, securing the learning and health of the children.

READ: Gender-based challenges falter Filipino girls’ potentials, study shows

“The children’s development and health is the nation’s wealth,” the senator said.

“We must remain unflinching in our efforts to give our children brighter days. Their moment is now,” she concluded.