The Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation, Inc. (HLAF) officially launched the SAFER Communities project in Region 3 at Bale Capampangan yesterday, January 23, 2025.
The SAFER (Strengthening Advocacy for Local Governments to Ensure Child Protection and Empowerment for All) Communities project is in partnership with the British Embassy, with generous support from the UK Government which aims to address the challenges, gaps, opportunities, and discuss collective efforts about online sexual abuse and exploitation of children.
This innovative initiative represents a crucial step toward safeguarding the future of vulnerable children in the region, ensuring their online protection, and empowering them to thrive in safe environments.
At the heart of the project is the commitment to bolster the local child protection mechanisms throughout Region 3. The project aims to streamline how children needing assistance can access necessary services through improved referral systems. This approach not only helps to improve response times but also ensures that children are treated with dignity and respect, allowing for a more holistic approach to their care.
Atty. Jeann Aubree Ruby Sadural, HLAF’s Executive Director told during her opening remarks “Sama-sama tayong magsusulong ng karapatan ng mga kabataan sa Region 3, lalong higit paigtingin natin ang ating kaalaman at kakayahan tungkol sa OSAEC, at paigtingin ang mga referral systems para sa kanila”.
One of the key components of this initiative is the empowerment of barangay councils for the protection of children, which serve as the first line of defense in preventing, protecting, and handling the well-being of vulnerable children. By providing mentorship and training, the project will equip these councils with the skills, knowledge, and attitude required to effectively identify and respond to cases of child vulnerability, abuse, and neglect.
Tackling Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation
In an increasingly digital world, the project places a strong emphasis on preventing, identifying, handling, and addressing online sexual abuse and exploitation of children. This comprehensive focus is vital given the alarming rise in technology-facilitated abuse, as well as the easy access of children. The SAFER Communities project will implement training activities that capacitate local duty-bearers about online safety, fostering a culture of vigilance and proactive behavior to mitigate risk.
Critical to the success of the SAFER project is raising awareness within communities about the issues surrounding child protection, as well as engaging local stakeholders to collaborate in creating an environment where children can thrive.
Recognizing that many victims of abuse carry deep psychological scars, the SAFER Communities project is committed to ensuring that care and support are trauma-informed. This means that the project’s training responses will capacitate local duty-bearers to handle their cases with sensitivity and understanding, allowing victims to access the support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
Building Community Awareness and Collaboration
The project launching was participated by DSWD-Region3 (Regional Inter-Agency Council on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children), Pampanga Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Cities of San Fernando, Angeles, Mabalacat, and Lubao, and their respective Barangays.
Moreover, the project creates a strong support system in promoting the best interests of children, ensuring they feel safe and understood.
The launch and the commitment of pledges of the participants of the SAFER Communities project in Region 3 marks a significant stride toward a future where children can grow up free from fear and harm. It embodies a collective commitment to building a safer environment, ensuring that young voices are heard, and their rights are protected.
The first capacity-building training on preventing online sexual abuse and exploitation of children will happen on February 26 – March 1, 2025, in Baguio City.
A Future of Safer Communities
As stakeholders unite under the SAFER banner, the possibilities for transformative change are boundless. With continued advocacy, enhanced systems, and a focus on empowerment, Region 3 stands poised to lead the way in protecting its most vulnerable citizens and nurturing a generation ready to face the future with hope and strength.
Together, through the SAFER Communities project, we can forge a path to a brighter, safer tomorrow for all children.