Koronadal City, Philippines – The Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC) of Koronadal City has intensified its efforts to address the growing presence of street children across the city. Recognizing the urgency of the issue, the council recently convened a meeting with representatives from both public and private sectors to discuss coordinated strategies and solutions.
Following the meeting, Mr. Aynudin S. Marohom of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) led an orientation session for local responders. The briefing focused on ensuring a child-sensitive approach in all operations involving street children, emphasizing the importance of protecting the rights and welfare of minors in vulnerable situations.
In response, the LCPC immediately conducted outreach activities, providing direct support and necessary interventions to children found living or begging on the streets. These efforts included health checkups, temporary shelter arrangements, and referrals to proper agencies for long-term assistance.
To strengthen the campaign further, the LCPC installed “anti-mendicancy” posters in key areas of the city. These serve as reminders to the public to refrain from giving alms to street children, a practice that, while well-meaning, may unintentionally contribute to the cycle of poverty and street dependency.
Despite these initiatives, local officials stressed the need for a stronger and properly enforced law to effectively curb child mendicancy and ensure accountability. Stakeholders are calling for clear legislation that will mandate coordinated action, protect children’s rights, and penalize those who exploit minors for begging or other street-related activities.
The city government, through the LCPC and its partners, remains committed to creating safer, child-friendly communities — but underscores that sustained success will only be possible with solid legal backing and community cooperation.