PH Bill Upholds Children’s Rights against Spanking

The rising number of child violence cases in the Philippines has prompted the passing of the Positive Discipline Act of 2011, which has been reviewed by the House Committee on the welfare of children.

Co-authored by Tarlac Representative Susan Yap and Bagong Henerasyon Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Sy, the Bill advocates non-violent forms of disciplining children, thus recognizing parental authority while upholding children’s rights.

Non-violent disciplining is defined as "an approach to correct the behavior of a child and to teach a lesson that would build self-discipline and emotional control while nurturing a good relationship with the child by understanding his or her needs and capabilities at various ages".  Once enacted into a law, punishment for those who are found guilty of violent acts on children may face up to 60 days of imprisonment.

UNICEF, the Department of Education, and other international advocacy groups have expressed support to the said bill.

Resource :
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