Pictured: Jake Sanders, Fr. Shay Cullen and Sir Allan Moore KC
By Luke Allen in Manila and Jake Sanders, Cambodia
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Edinburgh has uncovered a shocking reality: an estimated 300 million children worldwide are victims of sexual abuse and exploitation each year. This alarming statistic underscores a global crisis that demands immediate and concerted action to protect our most vulnerable population. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to safeguard children and support survivors.
The Philippines, unfortunately, is not immune to this global crisis. The situation here mirrors the worldwide issue, with a significant number of children falling victim to various forms of abuse. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), approximately 17.1% of Filipino children aged 13-17 have experienced sexual violence. The country has also been identified as a global hotspot for online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC), with the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) reporting a surge in suspicious transaction reports linked to OSEC during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Philippines’ rapid digital transformation, coupled with widespread poverty, has heightened the vulnerability of children to online predators.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has also reported that over 7,000 cases of child abuse were recorded in 2022, with many more likely going unreported due to stigma and fear of reprisal. These statistics paint a grim picture of the reality faced by many Filipino children and highlight the need for robust interventions and support systems.
Leading the fight against child abuse and providing support to survivors in the Philippines are several organizations, each with their unique contributions. One such organization is the People’s Recovery Empowerment Development Assistance (PREDA), which has been at the forefront of this battle for over 50 years, standing out for its comprehensive approach.
PREDA, founded in 1974 by Irish missionary Fr. Shay Cullen, is dedicated to protecting children from abuse and exploitation. The organization offers a range of services, including:
Rescue and Rehabilitation:PREDA operates several homes for children who have shown incredible resilience, having been rescued from abusive situations. These facilities provide a safe and nurturing environment where children receive psychological support, medical care, and legal assistance. The rehabilitation programs are designed to help children recover from trauma and rebuild their lives, showcasing their strength and determination.
Advocacy: The foundation campaigns for stronger laws and policies to protect children’s rights. PREDA works closely with government agencies, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to push for legislative reforms and ensure existing laws are implemented. The foundation also engages in public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the signs of abuse and the importance of reporting it.
Education and Empowerment:PREDA conducts educational programs to prevent child abuse and exploitation. These programs target schools, communities, and families, teaching them about child rights, safety measures, and the importance of creating protective environments for children. PREDA also empowers survivors by providing them with education and vocational training, enabling them to build a better future.
Online Safety Initiatives: Recognizing the growing threat of online exploitation, PREDA collaborates with international organizations to monitor and combat OSEC. The foundation’s effective use of advanced technology to track and report online predators, working alongside global law enforcement agencies to bring perpetrators to justice, reassures us of their commitment and impact. PREDA also provides resources and support to victims of online exploitation, helping them navigate the legal system and access necessary services. To donate, contact Fr. Shay and his team, please visit https://www.preda.org
In addition to PREDA, several other organizations play a crucial role in addressing child abuse in the Philippines:
Child Rights Network (CRN): A coalition of organizations advocating for protecting and promoting children’s rights in the Philippines. CRN focuses on policy advocacy, public awareness, and stakeholder capacity building.
Plan International Philippines: An NGO that works to protect children from all forms of violence, including sexual abuse and exploitation. Plan International implements programs to strengthen child protection systems, raise awareness, and support survivors.
Bahay Tuluyan: An organization that provides direct services to street children and other vulnerable groups. Bahay Tuluyan offers shelter, education, and legal assistance to children who have been abused or exploited.
The findings from the University of Edinburgh serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for global and local efforts to protect vulnerable children. Governments, non-governmental organizations, communities, and individuals, united in their mission, must work together to create safer environments and robust support systems for children. PREDA, CRN, Plan International, and Bahay Tuluyan initiatives are crucial in this fight, offering hope and tangible assistance to victims while striving to prevent future abuses.
Jake Sanders and Allan Moore – www.smocc.info email: amandfm@mail.com
