BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is looking forward to the implementation of the much delayed Provincial Children’s Code in this resort island next year.
Elma Malbas, provincial DSWD officer said that they were already conducting awareness on the Code among the transport group and laborers of the Caticlan Jetty Port.
Earlier, the DSWD-Western Visayas mobilized the Children’s Welfare Desk at the Jetty Port. This means that all of the minors passing in the jetty port would be registered at their desk.
The purpose of which was to protect children from abuses while staying in this resort island.
"We are just waiting for the passage of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the Children’s Code. Anyone, including resort owners, would be held liable if they violated certain provisions in the Children’s Code," said Malbas.
Prior to the passage of the code, resort owners prohibited policemen from entering their premises to investigate suspected child prostitution cases.
"Based on the code, we could use the strategy of rescuing the children whenever they are suspected of having an illicit relationship with an adult be it foreigner or local," said Malbas.
Once the IRR is released, the DSWD will then start a massive information campaign relative to the implementation of such existing laws.
They also hope that stakeholders and resort owners will fully cooperate with the ordinance for the protection of children.
Reports said that children are prone to abuse and trafficking cases in this resort island.
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