Protecting Our Children

November is National Children’s Month and this year’s celebration is centered on ending violence against children, with the theme “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines!”, as posted on the website of the Council for the Welfare of Children. Data from Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Center (PNP WCPC) showed that there were 17,681 cases of violence against children (VAC) in 2023. Majority of these violated Republic Act (RA) Number 7610 or ‘Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.’ And the data for the number of convicted perpetrators is yet available. This is a sad fact not only for victims but for our society as a whole.

The children, who are gifts to us, are often subjected to abuse instead of being cared for. Tragically, even their own parents and relatives are sometimes the perpetrators. They experience various forms of abuse—physical, verbal, emotional, psychological, and even sexual.

As parents, we are stewards of God’s blessings and have been entrusted with the role of protecting and nurturing our children. Yet, being human, we sometimes falter and unintentionally hurt these innocent ones, especially when disciplining them through harsh physical or verbal punishment. Instead, we should discipline them with love and care, mindful of their dignity and well-being.

As children grow, it is important that they look back on moments of discipline as acts of love rather than anger or harshness. Open communication, through heartfelt conversations, is an essential follow-up after discipline is imposed. This approach ensures that children do not harbor resentment or ill feelings. By respecting their emotions and explaining our actions, we foster an environment of mutual love and respect, which they will in turn give back to us as parents or guardians.

A Prayer for Parents and Children

Dearest Lord,

Thank you for the precious gift of children. As parents and guardians, whom You have entrusted with their care, may we be faithful stewards of their lives. Teach us to be loving and nurturing at all times, even in moments of discipline. Help us to protect them from all forms of abuse in the world today. May those who cause harm to children be held accountable and find their way to repentance, seeking Your forgiveness.

This we pray in Jesus’ mighty name, with the intercession of Mama Mary. Amen.

“Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.” – Psalm 127:3