COTABATO CITY (December 1) — Young voices took center stage in a historic step for child participation in governance as more than 25 Bangsamoro children gathered for the first Bangsamoro Children’s Congress, directly influencing policies that shape their lives and communities.
For three days, young delegates from across BARMM worked together to craft the Bangsamoro Children’s Manifesto—a powerful policy document outlining their priorities on child protection, online safety, education, health, and climate action.
Spearheaded by the Regional Sub-Committee for the Welfare of Children (RSCWC), together with the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government, and UNICEF Philippines, the Congress marks a growing movement to ensure children are not just heard but actively involved in regional decision-making.
Children Demand Protection, Education, and Climate Action
The Manifesto reflects the children’s urgent calls: • Stronger protection from abuse and exploitation • An end to early and forced marriage • Action against child labor • More classrooms and teachers for quality education • Better safeguards from climate-related hazards
Through wide-ranging and participatory discussions, the children mapped out how BARMM can strengthen systems that keep them safe and support their growth.
MSSD Minister Atty. Raisa Jajurie emphasized that children are shaping more than just documents—they are shaping governance itself.
“Children are not just beneficiaries. They are active partners in shaping the very policies that affect their lives,” Jajurie said. “This Children’s Manifesto shows their intellect, distinct perspectives, and powerful voices.”
Young Leaders Step Into Formal Roles
The event also saw the election of young representatives to the RSCWC and the Regional Juvenile Justice and Welfare Committee for 2026–2028, ensuring sustained youth presence in regional committees.
UNICEF Mindanao Field Office Chief Andreas Wuestenberg said children’s participation leads to more inclusive and effective policies.
“When children participate in governance, policies become more responsive,” he said. “UNICEF is proud to support BARMM’s efforts to make this participation meaningful.”
Youth Advocates Amplifying BARMM Voices
UNICEF also welcomed its 2025 Young Advocate Al-Jehad Guiaman, joining 2024 Young Advocate Fatima Darwissa Mansul—both BARMM youth leading impactful initiatives that inspire their peers.
They join other national Young Advocates—Sofia Michiko Yamamoto, Rhay Janssen Ocay, and Joshua Villalobos—in pushing forward children’s rights and influencing policy shifts that benefit young Filipinos.
