CHR chief lauds signing of Anti-Child Pornography bill

MANILA, Philippines – Chairwoman Leila de Lima of the Commission on Human Rights has lauded the signing into law of Republic Act 9775, the Anti-Child Pornography Law as a means of closing the legal loopholes in protecting the rights of children.

In a statement, De Lima said recent developments in technology have made it easier for predators to victimize children.

“Finally, we have a law which offers our children the additional protection that they require,” she said.

De Lima said the Anti-Child Pornography Law is mandated under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and Optional Protocol to the UNCRC on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child Pornography.

“And since it has teeth, it has the potential to more effectively deter any would-be child predators, depending on how well it is implemented,” she said.

De Lima said the CHR serves as a conduit between the government and non-government organizations, as well as between domestic and international bodies and institutions. 

“We are, therefore, pleased to note that the enacted law provides for mandatory services such as shelter, counseling, free legal, medical and psychological services, as well as educational assistance,” she said.

“We stand ready to participate in any effort to more effectively implement the Anti-Child Pornography Law, to harmonize existing laws relating to the welfare of children.” – Katherine Adraneda