Aquino OKs bill protecting children affected by disasters

MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III on Wednesday signed into law a bill that provides protection to Filipino children during disasters, calamities and armed conflicts.

Aquino signed Republic Act (RA) 10821 or the “Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection” at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañang Palace. The signing ceremony was witnessed Senate President Franklin Drilon, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman, Sen. Bam Aquino, Rep. Susan Yap and Linabelle Ruth Villarica, partners from international and local civil societies and children beneficiaries.

The measure originated in the Senate and was approved as Senate Bill 3034 by both the houses of Congress last February 16.

In his speech, Aquino stressed that even up to the last days of his term, he is fulfilling his vow of “Daang Matuwid” and providing Filipinos with a more comfortable life.

”Hanggang sa mga huling sandali ng pagbagtas natin sa Daang Matuwid, narito po tayo at ang inyong gobyerno, nakatutok sa pagtutupad ng isang panata: Ipamana ang isang Pilipinas na di hamak na mas maganda kaysa ating dinatnan,” he said.

Aquino explained that the new law seeks to assure protection of disaster-stricken children since they are most vulnerable to danger. 

 He added that the law will also provide the national and local government with detailed duties and responsibilities on how children will be protected in times of calamities.

”Bukod dito, hangad din nating maging pundasyon at pamantayan ang batas na ito sa pangangalaga sa kabataang Pilipino, sinuman ang nakaupo sa puwesto,” Aquino said.

”Ngayon, lalong tumitibay ang mandato ng lokal at pambansang pamahalaan na magtayo ng child-friendly spaces, evacuation centers, transitional shelters na may pasilidad para sa mga pangangailangan ng kabataan, pati na ng mga nagdadalantao,” he added.

RA 10821 mandates that rescuers shall be given training on child-responsive program. — Rosette Adel