Law Summary
Adoption of the Strategic Framework (Section 1)
- The CHILD 21 framework is formally adopted as the guiding document for all child-related programs, activities, and initiatives in the Philippines.
- Accompanying Medium Term Development Plans and Sectoral Frameworks that align with CHILD 21, such as the framework against the commercial sexual exploitation of children, are likewise adopted.
Lead Implementing Agency and Dissemination (Section 2)
- The CWC is designated as the lead agency responsible for the dissemination and implementation of CHILD 21.
- Implementation is to be carried out through existing structures and committees dedicated to children’s welfare at national, regional, and local levels.
Integration into Agency Programs and Budgeting (Section 3)
- Specified government agencies must incorporate CHILD 21 programs into their annual budget proposals. These include:
- Department of Social Welfare and Development
- Department of Health
- Department of Education, Culture and Sports
- Department of Labor and Employment
- Department of Justice
- Department of the Interior and Local Government
- Department of Agriculture
- National Economic and Development Authority
- National Nutrition Council
- National Youth Commission
- Each agency must establish clear performance indicators corresponding to their approved budgets related to CHILD 21.
Role of Local Government Units (Section 4)
- All Local Government Units (LGUs) are directed to integrate CHILD 21 into their Local Development Plans.
- The programs and activities must be funded by the LGUs from their Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA).
Participation of Civil Society (Section 5)
- Civil society groups, including Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), People’s Organizations, Children’s Organizations, and Church-based groups, are encouraged to actively support and contribute to child welfare initiatives.
- Collaboration is promoted between government agencies and these groups to enhance program effectiveness.
Department Orders for Implementation (Section 6)
- Member agencies of the CWC are required to issue department orders to adopt and implement programs and projects aimed at achieving the goals and targets of CHILD 21.
- Programs and projects should be reflected in respective Sectoral or Agency Plans.
Appropriations and Funding (Section 7)
- An initial amount of Five Million Pesos (P5,000,000.00) is appropriated from the President’s Social Fund to cover CWC’s expenses related to the implementation of this Executive Order.
- Future funding necessary for the implementation shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act for the CWC and other concerned agencies.
Effectivity of the Executive Order (Section 8)
- The Executive Order is to take effect immediately upon issuance.
- It formalizes the government’s commitment to systematically champion the rights and welfare of children through strategic planning and coordinated action among all stakeholders.