International Day of the Girl Child: Addressing the Challenges Facing Girls in the Philippines

 

The International Day of the Girl Child, observed every year on October 11, is a reminder to reflect on the unique challenges that girls face globally. In the Philippines, these challenges are exacerbated by issues such as child exploitation, underage pregnancies, and access to education, all of which disproportionately affect young girls. By raising awareness and taking action, we can ensure that every girl is given the opportunity to thrive.

Child Exploitation and Online Sexual Abuse

The Philippines has unfortunately become a global hotspot for online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC). Studies show that 80% of Filipino children are vulnerable to online sexual abuse or bullying, with many cases involving the exploitation of minors for live-streamed sexual content. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly worsened this issue, as economic hardships led some families to participate in online trafficking to survive.

Underage Pregnancies and Sexual Violence

The teenage pregnancy rate in the Philippines remains high, with a 35% increase in live births among girls aged 15 and below from 2021 to 2022. Girls under 18 face significant barriers to accessing sexual health services due to legal restrictions, further complicating their ability to protect themselves from unintended pregnancies. These pregnancies not only put girls at greater risk of health complications but also limit their future educational and economic opportunities.

Educational Disparities

Despite strides in education, economic pressures often force young girls to drop out of school to help support their families. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted education for girls, with many lacking the resources to participate in remote learning. This gap in education has long-term consequences for their future potential, making it difficult for them to break the cycle of poverty and inequality.

Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II: Ensuring No Girl Is Left Behind

At Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II, we are committed to rewriting the narrative for girls in the Philippines. We believe that women’s rights are human rights, and we are dedicated to empowering young girls through advocacy, education, and support programs. Our work aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 5 to achieve gender equality and ensure that no woman or girl is left behind.

We promise to continue raising our voices and taking action to nurture the dreams and potential of girls across the country, so they can realize a sustainable, equitable future for generations to come.


ADDITIONAL READING:

[1] https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/896654/cpd-under-15-pregnancies-surged-in-2022/story/

[2] https://www.worldvision.org.ph/end-child-marriage-2020/

[3] https://www.savethechildren.net/news/jump-35-teen-pregnancies-philippines-prompts-calls-increase-sex-education-and-health-services

[4] https://www.pids.gov.ph/details/news/in-the-news/philippines-improves-in-2023-world-gender-equality-ranking

[5] https://pcw.gov.ph/education/

[6] https://www.pnri.dost.gov.ph/images/GADCorner/Fact-Sheet-on-Filipino-Women-and-Men-2023.pdf

[7] https://reproductiverights.org/philippines-decriminalizes-adolescent-sexual-activity/

[8] https://philippines.unfpa.org/en/news/maguindanao-youth-spearhead-campaign-against-child-marriage

[9] https://psa.gov.ph/content/teenage-pregnancy-declined-86-percent-2017-54-percent-2022

[10] https://psa.gov.ph/content/education-women-and-men

[11] https://reproductiverights.org/philippines-criminalizes-child-marriage/

[12] https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/03/22/2253599/us-report-philippines-still-struggling-protect-children-sexual-abuse

[13] https://psa.gov.ph/content/literacy-rate-and-educational-attainment-among-persons-five-years-old-and-over-philippines