UNICEF urges RP to lead in Asian child welfare

Despite local child prostitution and other problems on child concerns, the Philippines was urged by a UN body to lead Asian countries in creating a child-friendly environment.

United Nations International Children's Fund (UNICEF) executive director Carol Bellamy issued the challenge to Philippine government officials during a visit to one of the depressed areas in Manila yesterday.

Bellamy is in the country for a four-day visit as part of her international campaign to solicit support in promoting the new "global agenda for children."

The Philippines, Bellamy said, may be facing several challenges in child protection but is a flagship country in its concern for children.

Bellamy called on the Philippine officials to take the lead in the development of an "Asian agenda for children" that will be presented to the United Nations General Assembly in September.

"The Philippines can provide great leadership as it has shown in wiping out polio," Bellamy said as she cited the government's efforts in poverty-reduction and in creating child-friendly environments.

According to Bellamy, the Philippines can again show leadership by regionally promoting children's welfare and serve as the example for other Asian countries to follow.

Bellamy said she has seen the difficult living conditions of many Filipino families but such problems should not prevent the government from pursuing programs for child welfare.

"There are difficult challenges but the government should still keep on investing in children by providing primary health care and allowing them to exercise their rights," she pointed out.

The growing problem of street children, Bellamy said, is a reflection of the economic difficulty in the Philippines which the government should immediately resolve.

Bellamy gave assurances that UNICEF is willing to provide the necessary assistance to the Philippine government in addressing problems affecting children.

During her visit to Pandacan, Manila, Bellamy also urged residents living near the railroad tracks to help the government in initiating measures to prevent children from becoming victims of abuse and exploitation.

With community support , Bellamy said all countries, including the Philippines, have the chance to progress and reach the goals of the 1990 World Summit for Children.

The goals cover all aspects of children worldwide, like primary health care, education and protection from neglect and abuse.

Bellamy said there is a need to assess national and global efforts to achieve those goals. Progress towards the goals will be reviewed in the 2nd World Summit for Children.

UNICEF will identify what needs to be done to accelerate progress for children and is expected to endorse renewed commitments to children in the 21st century during the meeting.