As many people say, “age doesn’t matter” in relationships. However, this is not the case for minors.  There are times when children are manipulated into engaging in relationships or sexual acts that they are not emotionally or cognitively prepared for, leading to profound and long-lasting consequences. This manipulation often takes advantage of the vulnerability of children. Child sexual abuse is a crime where an adult or older child uses a minor for sexual gratification. It violates the trust and innocence of children.  

The imbalance of power involved in child sexual abuse is one of the aspects that exacerbate the issue at hand. Adults and older people have power and influence over children, which they take advantage of for their own sexual desires. Due to the vulnerability of children, they are more prone to psychological manipulation and coercion tactics employed by the abusers. This makes it difficult for children to disclose the abuse or seek help. The fear, shame, and confusion experienced by victims often prevent them from speaking out, perpetuating the cycle of abuse and trauma.

Furthermore, the victim of child sexual abuse may suffer terrible, permanent effects. Such abuse can have a variety of psychological, emotional, and physical effects, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-harm, and marital problems. The trauma caused by sexual abuse of children can have a lasting impact on the victim's relationships, general quality of life, and general well-being. For this reason, prevention, intervention, and support for survivors are vital.

Moreover, the protection of children against such abuse is evident in the Philippines. Republic Act 7610, also known as the "Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act," aims to provide special protection to children from all forms of abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation, and discrimination. When a parent, guardian, teacher, or other person with the child's care or custody neglects them or abuses them, the government will step in to defend their rights. 

Even with such laws, there are still a lot of cases pertaining to child sexual abuse. The following are examples:

Child Sexual Abuse is a Widespread Problem

In FY16 alone, Child Protective Services agencies substantiated or found strong evidence to indicate that 57,329 children were victims of sexual abuse.

 

One in 9 girls and 1 in 20 boys under the age of 18 experience sexual abuse or assault.

82% of all victims under 18 are female. Females ages 16-19 are 4 times more likely than the general population to be victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault.

 

Australian sentenced to 129 years in Philippine child sex abuse case: prosecutor | 9 November 2022 - PhilStar Global

Australian man Peter Gerard Scully has been sentenced to 129 years in a Philippine jail for a child sexual abuse case involving victims as young as 18 months. The Philippines has become a global hotspot for child sex exploitation due to poverty, English fluency, and high internet connectivity. Scully and his three co-accused entered into a plea bargaining agreement, charged with 60 offenses, including trafficking, child pornography, child abuse, and rape. Scully's girlfriend, Lovely Margallo, was sentenced to 126 years in jail. Victims and their families have accepted the terms of the agreement, considering it a "sweet victory." Scully was arrested in 2015 after fleeing Australia in 2011. The Philippines is one of the top global sources of child sex abuse materials, according to the United Nations Children's Fund.

2M Filipino children abused online during pandemic
| 1 May 2022 - The Manila Times

EVANGELINE is among several children rescued from internet-based child sex abuse for money from foreign pedophiles. The demand is high, with an estimated 2 million abused Filipino children between 12 and 17 suffering sexual abuse over the internet, especially during lockdowns. Live sex shows and other acts are streamed and uploaded to pedophiles through Philippine internet service providers.

 

At least 17,600 children suffered violence and abuse in 2023, says PNP | 2024 - INQUIRER NET

The Philippines government recorded 17,600 child abuse cases in 2023, with most violating Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act. Council for the Welfare of Children Executive Director Angelo Tapeles reported that by the third quarter of 2023, at least 1,000 children were victims of Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children.

 

1. Target Audience

This advocacy aims to target both children and parents in order to raise awareness about the root causes of child sexual abuse. By involving both audiences, we hope to build a shared awareness of the factors that contribute to such abuse, helping individuals to identify and address potential risks and dangers. Through education, we hope to provide children with the knowledge and skills they need to detect and report instances of abuse, as well as parents with the resources they need to assist and safeguard their children in the digital era. 

Why does this petition matter?

Child Sexual Abuse is a serious matter both internationally and locally. Promoting and doing this advocacy challenges societal stigmas and misconceptions surrounding child sexual abuse, promoting a more nuanced understanding of the complex factors that contribute to this issue. By advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with abuse tendencies, we can encourage open dialogue and support for those seeking help and treatment. It also helps to address root causes of child sexual abuse, such as childhood trauma or mental health issues, leading to more effective prevention and intervention strategies. 

Furthermore, advocacy can promote research and education on child sexual abuse, fostering greater awareness of risk factors and warning signs. It can also advocate for better access to mental health services and support for children who are victim of such abuse. Additionally, by standing up for the rights of those who have experienced this, we can encourage a more sympathetic and caring method of handling this delicate matter. Moreover, it can aid in removing obstacles that keep people from talking about their problems or asking for assistance, which can result in early support and intervention. 

Moreover, it can support modifications in the law that give prevention and rehabilitation precedence over disciplinary actions, resulting in a more efficient and compassionate reason for child sexual abuse. By raising voices and fighting for justice and resources for victims of child sexual abuse, this advocacy can also provide survivors of these crimes more power. 

In conclusion, Shielding Innocence for a Brighter Future Advocacy is important because it will enable us to respond to this difficult problem in a more knowledgeable, compassionate, and successful way.

 

2. Impacts 

Each survivor's reaction to sexual abuse varies. The survivor's culture, sense of style, and the situation in life may impact their answers. Some people like to express their emotions to others, while others prefer to keep them to themselves. While some victims may rather speak about the assault right away, others would choose to wait weeks, months, or even years to discuss it with others. Honoring each person's decision-making process and coping strategy is crucial in light of this horrible situation. One's capacity to lead a normal life may be impacted by an assault, regardless of whether it was carried out or just attempted and, irrespective of how long ago it happened.

 

3.  Objectives

1. To protect the human rights of children
2. To stop sexual abuse
3. To raise awareness about child sexual abuse
4. To educate people on the impact of sexual abuse on children
5. To promote a safer place for children
   
   

Every child matters. Supporting this advocacy ensures that every child's voice is heard and valued, resulting in a safer environment for future generations. Join us in promoting child protection and empowerment. Together, we can make a difference. As Dr. Jose Rizal once said, "The youth is the hope of the nation!"

Your ONE VOTE can truly make a significant difference in protecting CHILDREN. Give your support and share this call for change.

“Childhood should be carefree, playing in the sun; not living a nightmare in the darkness of the soul.”

― Dave Pelzer, A Child Called "It"

#EndPedophilia #AgeDoesMatter #Justice 

#ChildAbuseAwareness #HumanRights

#ChildLivesMatter #ProtectTheInnocents