Special Protection of Children

Against Child Abuse, Exploitation

and Discrimination Act
(Republic Act 7610)
MARTIN B. BACCAY
MARIA ELIZA C. SUYU
When do Rights Begin?
Philippine Constitution, Article II, Section 12 –
“The State recognizes the sanctity of family life
and shall protect and strengthen the family as a
basic autonomous social institution. It shall
equally protect the life of the mother and the life of
the unborn from conception.”
When do Rights Begin?
Presidential Decree No. 603, Article 3, #1
“Every child is endowed with the dignity and worth of
a human being from the moment of his conception, as
generally accepted in medical parlance, and has,
therefore, the right to be born well”.
Who are considered Children?
Children – persons below 18 years of age or those
over but are unable to do fully take care of themselves
from abuse, neglect, cruelty, exploitation or
discrimination because of a physical or mental
disability or conditions.
What is the Rationale of RA 7610?
To give protection to persons below 18 years of age or
those over but are unable to fully take care of themselves or
protect themselves from abuse, cruelty, and exploitation.
Offenses Against Children under RA 7610
1. Child Prostitution and other sexual
abuse.
Offenses Against Children under RA 7610
2. Attempt to commit child prostitution.
Offenses Against Children under RA 7610
3. Child Trafficking.
4. Attempt to commit child Trafficking.
Offenses Against Children under RA 7610
5. Child pornography and indecent shows
and publication.
Offenses Against Children under RA 7610
6. Other Acts of Neglect, Abuse, Cruelty
or Exploitation and Other Conditions
Prejudicial to the Child’s Development.
Other Acts of Abuse
Any person who shall keep or have in his
company a minor, twelve (12) years or under
or who is ten (10) years or more his junior in
any public or private place, hotel, motel, beer
joint, discotheque, cabaret, pension house,
sauna or massage parlor, beach and/or other
tourist resort or similar places.
Other Acts of Abuse
Any person who shall use, coerce, force or
intimidate a street child or any other child to:
o Beg or use begging as a means of living
o Act as conduit or middleman in drug
trafficking or pushing
o Conduct any illegal activities.