RA11188: AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE SPECIAL PROTECTION OF CHILDREN IN SITUATIONS OF ARMED CONFLICT AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF
Republic Act (RA) 11188, enacted on January 10, 2019, provides special protection to children in situations of armed conflict. The Act recognizes the vulnerability of children in armed conflict and seeks to ensure their safety, welfare, and development.
Highlight of RA 11188
RA 11188 declares children as "Zones of Peace," ensuring their protection from all forms of abuse, violence, and exploitation during armed conflict. This declaration underscores the State's commitment to upholding the rights of children and promoting their well-being even in the midst of conflict.
Key Features of RA 11188
Comprehensive Protection: The Act provides comprehensive protection to children in situations of armed conflict, including those who are involved in, affected by, or displaced by armed conflict.
Prohibited Acts: The Act prohibits various acts that are harmful to children, such as killing, torture, maiming, rape, abduction, recruitment into armed groups, attacks on schools and hospitals, and denial of humanitarian access.
Penalties: The Act imposes severe penalties for those who commit crimes against children in situations of armed conflict, including life imprisonment and hefty fines.
Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration: The Act mandates the State to establish programs for the rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration of children involved in armed conflict.
Inter-Agency Committee: The Act establishes an Inter-Agency Committee on Children in Situations of Armed Conflict to oversee the implementation of the law.
Monitoring and Reporting: The Act requires the State to establish a monitoring and reporting system to track the situation of children in armed conflict and ensure the effective implementation of the law.