By Deborah Castellano Lubov
“We must pray and take immediate action to combat child trafficking, safeguard vulnerable groups and provide support to victims.”
This appeal was made by Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos, Vice-President of the Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), in a message on the occasion of World Anti-Trafficking Day.
Established by the United Nations ten years ago and celebrated every year on 30 July, the Day has as its theme this year: “The fight against child trafficking is of paramount importance.”
Children most trafficked
There are many forms of human trafficking, including forced labour, sexual exploitation, forced marriage, and recruitment of child soldiers.
Amid all those trafficked globally, children account for almost one-third of the victims, with girls making up the majority.
There are an estimated 40 million people in modern slavery worldwide, according to the International Labour Organization, which observes they often work for little or no compensation.
Given the extent of this phenomenon, the Catholic Church in the Philippines has appealed to the faithful of the country to work to prevent human trafficking.
Steps to combat the phenomenon
In his message on behalf of the Filipino Bishops’ Conference, Bishop Cruz Santos called for prayer and action.
“Prayer changes things,” he underscored, noting that, ‘Even if we feel powerless in certain situations,” we “must unite in prayer to end child trafficking and protect vulnerable lives.”
Secondly, he urged for taking “immediate action to combat child trafficking, safeguard vulnerable groups and provide support to victims,’ and called for raising public awareness.
The third appeal was not only to support policy reforms but to improve law enforcement.
Ensuring no child is left behind
Lastly, he called for establishing additional resources such as child sponsorship programmes to provide education, nutritious food, healthcare, and life skills training.
The Bishop acknowledged the faithful’s common commitment to combat this scourge, despite the challenges.
“We must make every effort to ensure that no child is left behind in this struggle,” he noted, saying, “It is time to act and make a positive impact. By working together, we can create a safer world for children and pave the way for a brighter future.”
“With fervent prayers and faith, the desire that God puts in our hearts,” the Bishop noted, “will move His heart and bring a blessing.” – Vatican News
