Children's Rights

According to Republic Act No. 7610, also known as the "Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act," the rights of children in the Philippines include:

1. Right to life, survival, and development

2. Right to protection against abuse, exploitation, and discrimination

3. Right to an education, including access to quality education and child-friendly schools

4. Right to participate in decision-making processes that affect them

5. Right to special protection in situations of armed conflict

6. Right to health and healthcare services

7. Right to social protection and welfare services

The specific Department of Education (DepEd) Order that explicitly outlines the rights of children in the context of education is DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012, also known as the "Child Protection Policy." This policy establishes mechanisms to safeguard the welfare of learners and ensure that their rights, including protection and participation, are upheld within educational settings. It provides guidelines on preventing and addressing child abuse, exploitation, discrimination, and other forms of violence and harm in schools. DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012 emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and child-friendly environment that promotes holistic development and the realization of children's rights in educational institutions.

According to the Department of Education's mandate, children's rights in the context of education include:

1. Right to access basic education

2. Right to inclusive education, regardless of gender, socio-economic status, ability, or any other factors

3. Right to a safe and conducive learning environment

4. Right to quality education that promotes holistic development

5. Right to participate in the decision-making processes within educational institutions

6. Right to protection against violence, discrimination, and harassment in educational settings

7. Right to special education services for learners with disabilities or special needs.