Children attend classes online in an urban poor community in the Philippine capital as schools opened on October 5. (Photo by Jire Carreon)
Jul 14 2021
Child rights group Salinlahi Alliance for Children’s Concerns called for children’s safety following the Philippine government’s decision to ease quarantine restrictions in areas where there are less COVID-19 cases.
The group welcomed the easing of age restrictions that allows children five and above to go outdoors, but called for a “more comprehensive program” to address problems being faced by children as a result of the health crisis.
The Philippines on Friday loosened coronavirus restrictions to allow children out of their homes so they can return to parks, playgrounds, and hiking trails in the capital region and some other provinces after a slowdown in infections.
Children aged five and above, who were previously confined indoors, will also be permitted to go to outdoor tourist sites and dining establishments, and play non-contact sports outside.
The children, however, must be supervised by adults and should observe minimum public health standards, such as wearing of face masks and social distancing.
“Rather than adopting piecemeal approach, the government must provide concrete solutions to pressing issues concerning children such as poverty, malnutrition, mental illnesses and increasing cases of child abuse and violence,” said Eule Rico Bonganay, secretary general of Salinlahi.
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