Pursuant to DepEd Order No. 40 s. 2012 or the “DepEd Child Protection Policy”, Division Offices are enjoined to immediately perform their duties and responsibilities provided section 6 of the policy. Balanga City Division Office is likewise enjoined to check the compliance of the schools for the establishment of a Child Protection Committee and adoption of Child Protection Policy.
The memorandum by creating a Child Protection Committee must be directly followed by the school. The said committee has designated functions such as:
- Provide a school child protection policy with a code of conduct and a plan to ensure child protection and safety;
- Initiate information dissemination programs and organize activities for the protection of children from abuse;
- Develop and implement a school-based referral and monitoring system;
- Establish a system for identifying pupils who may be suffering from significant harm based on any physical, emotional or behavioral signs
- Identify, refer and, if appropriate, report to the appropriate office cases involving child abuse, exploitation, violence, discrimination and bullying;
- Give assistance to parents or guardians, whenever necessary in securing expert guidance counseling from the appropriate institution.
- Coordinate closely with the Women and Child Protection Desks of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Local Social Welfare and Development Office (LSWDO) and other government agencies.
- Monitor the implementation of positive measures and effective procedures in providing necessary support for the child and for those who care for the child; and
- Ensure that the children’s right to be heard are respected and upheld in all matters and procedures affecting their welfare.
The safety of the children should be prioritized so that the different cases against child’s right will be diminished. The school must also ensure the community that they will be continuously utilizing the policy for the welfare of the pupils.
By: Maria Cecilia V. Mirania Teacher I Cataning Elementary School
