Police reminds parents, children of ‘touching rules’

MANILA, Philippines — Police reminded children and their parents on Sunday about the “touching rules” as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to protect the young ones amid the increasing cases of sexual abuse in some regions of the country.

Citing the Stairway Foundation Inc., the Philippines Police Community Affairs and Development Group said in a Facebook post that all children must understand the four touching rules. These are:

• It is never right for someone older or more powerful than you to touch your private body parts or ask you to touch their private body parts. They should also be barred from taking pictures or videos of private body parts.
• If someone tries to touch you, asks you to touch their private body parts, or wants to take a picture or video of your private body parts, say no and run to a trusted adult.
• Never blame the kid. It is never the child’s fault if they are touched on their private body parts.
• Never keep secrets about breaking a Touching Rule. Talk to a trusted adult.

READ: Students urges gov’t to protect kids from online sexual abuse, exploitation

READ: Protecting children from sexual abuse

‘Kuwarto ni Neneng’

Besides these rules, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) earlier ordered the Philippine National Police to double down their efforts in combating these cases and instructed them to implement the “Kuwarto ni Neneng” program.

Under the program, PNP is ordered to distribute building materials for families with pre-teen girls who need their own room. Female officials are likewise instructed to visit these families to ensure the welfare of these young girls.

“The objective is for women officers from the barangay, police, and social welfare officials to conduct regular visitations on OFWs’ houses and check on the situation and condition of their children,” the agency said in a statement.