UN Special Rapporteur on Sale and Exploitation of Children Concludes Country Visit

Left to Right: Deputy Assistant Secretary Noemi T. Diaz (DFA), Undersecretary Angelo Tapales (CWC), Human Rights Officer Antara Singh (OHCHR), Special Rapporteur on the Sale and Sexual Exploitation of Children Mama Fatima Singhateh, Undersecretary Severo Catura (PHRCS) and Commissioner Beda A. Erpes (CHR). (Photo by CWC)

MANILA 13 December 2022 – As part of its open and constructive engagement with the UN and international community on human rights, the Philippines received the UN Special Rapporteur (SR) on the Sale and Exploitation of Children for an official country visit from 28 November to 09 December 2022. The visit of the SR, Ms. Mama Fatima Singhateh, was upon the invitation of the Philippine Government.

In her debriefing at the conclusion of her visit, SR Singhateh acknowledged the policies and best practices of the Philippine Government to combat child trafficking and the exploitation of children, such as the establishment of assistance centers and strong legislative measures.

She also appreciated the efficient manner in which her visit was facilitated by relevant authorities.

She encouraged the Government to step up efforts to consolidate its system for “detection of crimes, complaint handling…and enhancing capacities of officials and social workers…to provide meaningful support and rehabilitation to victims and survivors.”

The SR’s final report on her visit will be presented to and discussed at the UN Human Rights Council in 2024.

The Philippine Government looks forward to the report of the Special Rapporteur, and affirms its readiness to closely study the recommendations of the SR to help eliminate the sale and sexual exploitation of children in the country, in the ASEAN region, and worldwide. END