THE 10TH Infantry Division partnered with the Department of Social Welfare and Development XI and the Council for Children’s Welfare during a courtesy call at the unit’s headquarters in Mawab, Davao de Oro, on Oct. 2.
MGEN Alvin Luzon, 10ID commander, welcomed DSWD-XI regional director Benchie Gonzales and CWC regional coordinator Rene Boy Binondo to strengthen their collaboration for the protection, welfare, and safety of children caught in conflict-affected and disaster-prone zones.
They discussed the expansion of support systems for children of former rebels and other vulnerable minors identified through ongoing peace and reintegration initiatives. They also explored ways to guarantee access to health, education, and development programs.
These joint efforts are tailored to operationalize localized child protection and emergency response mechanisms, particularly in Davao Oriental and Davao Occidental.
During the meeting, Binondo emphasized critical preventive measures, ranging from localized emergency preparedness to safeguarding children against violence, abuse, and neglect.
Discussions also underscored the strict implementation of Republic Act No. 10821 (Children’s Emergency Relief and Protection Act), which mandates specialized safety and relief measures for minors during disasters and humanitarian crises.
Recognizing modern vulnerabilities, the agencies also addressed emerging threats, stressing the urgency of promoting digital safety, responsible digital parenting, and child-friendly governance mechanisms to protect youth from online exploitation.
Reaffirming the military’s commitment to human security, Luzon stressed that the protection of the younger generation transcends traditional security frameworks.
“Safeguarding children is a shared responsibility,” Luzon stated, emphasizing that sustained whole-of-community cooperation among state security forces, social welfare agencies, local communities, and stakeholders remains vital to securing a safe and prosperous future for the region’s youth.
