Question & AnswerQ&A (DSWD DEPARTMENT ORDER NO. 13)
The legal basis includes the 1987 Constitution Article XV, Section III; the 1991 Local Government Code; Republic Act 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination); and PD 603 (Child and Youth Welfare Code).
It recognizes the primary role of Local Government Units (LGUs) in service delivery, including health and welfare services and the implementation of programs for street children.
A street child is a person below 18 years who spends significant time on streets or similar areas, engaging in activities like scavenging, peddling, begging, often inadequately protected or supervised by adults.
To rescue street children from the streets; provide social services; protect their rights for development; and prepare them to be productive community members.
Rescue operation; social mobilization and networking; basic services delivery (street-based, center-based, community-based); capability building; data-banking and research.
Rescue operations remove street children from hazardous situations, protect them from abuse and exploitation, and are conducted by a team including social workers, barangay officials, and law enforcement.
Street-based approach (direct outreach on streets), center-based approach (residential care and drop-in centers), and community-based approach (family and community involvement).
Adoption, foster family care, legal guardianship, and kinship care for children whose families cannot provide basic needs.
A 10-week parenting skills program aimed at enhancing family unity, cohesion, and spirituality to support the care of street children.
The Local Government Units through Street Children Task Forces or equivalent bodies, with multi-sectoral representation.
Funds are approved by the Sanggunian and managed by the receiving organizations per approved Work and Financial Plans, with DSWD and other agencies augmenting LGU budgets.
Providing technical assistance, training, data management, rescue assistance, and capability-building for program managers and service providers.
An abused child is physically, emotionally, or psychologically harmed or exploited by caretakers; children in conflict with the law are those apprehended for crimes or ordinance violations and currently in temporary detention.
An alternative service providing information and basic services directly on the street to guide children toward better life decisions, such as returning home or entering formal systems.
To ensure protection and provide proper development for children at the barangay level, focusing on family and community actions for children needing special protection.
They assist in rescue operations, enforce child protection laws, arrest syndicates exploiting children, and help organize relevant police desks for women and children.
Local government units conduct monitoring and assessments; DSWD and the Council for the Welfare of Children provide technical assistance and convene annual chairpersons meetings.
Through case management, family counseling, after-care services, and community organization to support reintegration and prevent return to street life.