“Ang Kabataan ang Pag-asa ng Bayan.”

This is the most famous line of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.

But what if the future of our youth is neglected?

What would become of our nation then?

This November, the entire Philippines celebrates National Children’s Month.

But when and how did this celebration start?

The celebration of National Children’s Month in the Philippines began in 1993.

This was in line with Republic Act No. 10661, a law declaring November as National Children’s Month, enacted on May 29, 2015.

Its purpose is to recognize children as an important part of our society.

It also reminds us that children have fundamental rights that should be respected and given attention.

Some of these include the right to education, a healthy life, and protection from abuse.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in 2024, around 11 million children are not in school, 250,000 are homeless, and most concerning, 80% of children in the country experience abuse.

These issues are the biggest challenges facing the youth in our society today.

To promote the importance of children’s health, the Department of Health (DOH) has various programs and activities aimed at helping children and their families.

Some of these include the Child Immunization Program, which ensures children receive the proper vaccines to protect them from diseases.

There are also feeding programs in various public schools and mental health and psychosocial support programs aimed at improving the mental health of children, especially those who have experienced trauma or abuse.

During National Children’s Month, the DOH, in partnership with other agencies and organizations, conducts seminars, workshops, and outreach programs.

National Children’s Month is more than just a simple celebration of children.

It is an important observance to ensure that children enjoy their rights.

**VALERIE ANN DISMAYA