The 2025 National Children’s Month theme “OSAEC-CSAEM Wakasan: Kaligtasan at Karapatan ng Bata, Ipaglaban!” reflects a truth many people avoid facing. When we hear the words “wala kang kasalanan,” it speaks directly to children who are blamed, silenced, or ignored after experiencing abuse. Children should never have to carry shame for something done to them. This theme reminds us that behind every statistic is a child who deserved protection but was failed by the system around them.
The government has created laws and programs meant to stop online sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These include efforts to track online crimes, remove abusive materials, and rescue victims. Awareness campaigns during National Children’s Month help inform people that online abuse is real and happening. Hearing statements like “may karapatan kang maging ligtas” matters because it tells children that someone is supposed to protect them and that abuse is not normal or acceptable.
Still, many cases continue because protection does not always reach the children who need it most. Some victims stay silent after hearing “huwag ka nang magsalita” or feeling that reporting will only make things worse. Slow action, lack of access to help, and fear allow abuse to continue. This shows that protection should not stop at written laws. It must reach homes, schools, and online spaces where children are most vulnerable.
This theme is a reminder that children cannot fight these battles alone. When we say “ipaglaban ang bata,” it means listening when they speak, believing them when they are scared, and acting before harm happens. A safer future begins when children are treated with dignity and when their safety is taken seriously, not later, but now.
Reference/Source:
Council for the Welfare of Children
Department of Social Welfare and Development
Republic Act No. 9775 Anti Child Pornography Act of 2009
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