Children to aspiring leaders: Prioritize us

Fatima Reyes

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Children to aspiring leaders: Prioritize us
Are children's issues a priority for candidates in the 2016 elections?

MANILA, Philippines – Children are still too young to cast their votes, but that does not mean they do not have a say in choosing the country’s political leaders.

As the May 2016 elections draw near, stakeholders stress the need for candidates to look into policies that affect children, and make sure they are not left behind in development efforts.

Close to 80 child leaders from all over the country gathered during the annual Children’s Congress organized by World Vision in November last year.

For the three-day event, participants came up with the “Children’s Agenda,” a document which cites issues that are most important to them and the kind of country leaders they want.

“We want leaders whose hearts are for children, those who will really be bold enough to push for solutions to the problems of the youth,” says Dianne, a Grade 10 student and delegate from Cebu.

Priority issues

The participants, who are child leaders aged between 12 to 17, raised child protection, health and nutrition, disaster preparedness, and poverty alleviation as priority issues that should be addressed by aspiring leaders. (READ: How poverty affects street children psychologically)

“It is alarming how teenage pregnancy is still rampant in our communities. It’s sad because children have so much potential; we want to see them fulfill their dreams,” says Ronnie, a 17-year-old delegate from Cebu.

Meanwhile, 15-year-old Sheena still laments the living conditions of some families in Tacloban two years after typhoon Yolanda: “Even after two years, many children and families are still living in bunkhouses and tents. Many are still in need of food, water, and shelter. The government needs to step up support and assistance.” 

YOUNG LEADERS. The participants of the National Children's Congress say they want leaders who will take their opinions seriously. Image courtesy of World Vision

Participants also cited concern about out-of-school youth, child laborers, and those who are being lured into drug use. They stressed the importance of responsible parenthood and guidance from older peers.

“Instead of going to school, many of the youth in our communities are going to internet shops. Cyber addiction is keeping the students from the quality education they need,” Dianne shared.

During the congress, children said they want leaders who are not corrupt and who are fair and just in their judgment. They also want leaders who are responsible, transparent, and have a strong sense of conviction.

“We want leaders who take children’s opinions seriously, and will do everything to improve their situation,” says Jeselle 14 year old student from Zamboanga del Norte.

Youth voters

Before children reach the voting age of 18, children must be given the chance early on to express their opinions, give feedback, make suggestions on policies and even comment on the government officials’ performance. (READ: #TheLeaderIWant: Youth dared to find ‘hugot’ in social issues)

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) says 40% of the total registered voters in the country come from the youth sector. The poll body says there are around 20 million youth voters out of the 52 million registered voters in the country.

Recognizing that child participation is critical in nation building, World Vision commits itself to involve children in its programming nationwide.

Katherine Yee, Advocacy Manager for World Vision, says the child-focused organization’s role is to provide a space for children to be able to speak up on issues affecting them.

“It is important that we start them young,” Yee stressed, noting that “we are here to support them and make sure that stakeholders are working to promote the well being of vulnerable children.” – Rappler.com

Fatima Reyes is the media engagement specialist of World Vision.

World Vision is an international Christian humanitarian, relief, and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice.

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