The Philippines must build a justice system that protects children more effectively, the Department of Justice (DOJ) emphasized during its first Justice Summit in Pasay City on Monday, underscoring the urgent need to safeguard young Filipinos from abuse, exploitation, and neglect.
DOJ Officer-in-Charge Fredderick A. Vida said many cases involving minors remain unseen because young victims fear speaking out. “They are afraid to speak up, leaving them without the protection they desperately need,” he said, calling attention to the quiet suffering many children endure.
Vida described the role of children in the nation as central, saying, “Children are not just the future of our nation but the heart of it.” He stressed that young Filipinos remain among the most at risk and deserve a system that shields their innocence and ensures their well-being.
The summit gathered national government agencies, civil society groups, NGOs, and other justice advocates to address long-standing gaps in the country’s child protection framework. According to Vida, the initiative seeks to strengthen justice delivery for vulnerable groups including children, women, persons with disabilities, indigenous communities, and senior citizens.
Part of the effort includes the rollout of an updated case management protocol for child victims of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination. Vida said the revised guidance is intended to ensure every minor who enters the justice system is treated “with utmost care, compassion and respect.”
While expressing optimism about the reforms, Vida urged participants to play an active role in shaping a safer environment for Filipino youth. “We need more than just protocols,” he said. “We need your expertise. We need your voices. We need your persistent engagement.”
