The Alternative Law Groups strongly oppose any form of trafficking in persons – a gross violation of human rights – particularly those committed against vulnerable groups such as women and children. This year’s United Nations (UN) global campaign is “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking” which aims to accelerate the end to child trafficking.
According to the UN, one in three victims of human trafficking globally is a child, with girls being disproportionately affected and vulnerable. This exploitation includes adoption leading to abuse, child labor, sexual exploitation, child marriage, and teenage pregnancy. Alarmingly, perpetrators of child trafficking are often close family members, relatives, or individuals whom the child trusts.
The rise of online platforms, especially social media, further exacerbates children’s vulnerability to online sexual abuse and exploitation. Traffickers exploit these digital platforms due to their broad reach and the difficulty authorities face in tracking them.
Although there are existing laws designed to protect against trafficking—such as the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, the Act Prohibiting the Practice of Child Marriage and Imposing Penalties, the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) Act, the Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act, and laws targeting the worst forms of child labor—their implementation needs significant strengthening.
We urge the Philippine government to eradicate all forms of trafficking in persons and address its root causes, such as poverty and lack of education. Child protection laws must be enforced at both local and national levels, with adequate funding allocated for child protection, digital safeguarding, and capacity-building of duty-bearers to handle trafficking cases effectively.
Collectively, we must prioritize the best interests of children, empower them to participate in decision-making, and protect them from all forms of abuse and exploitation. Let us create a world where children can realize their full potential and live freely and safely.
The Alternative Law Groups
The Alternative Law Groups is a coalition of 20 legal resource non-governmental organizations engaged in the dual work of empowering marginalized communities and effecting justice system reforms.