The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Tuesday that it will launch the revised protocol for the case management of child victims of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination (CANE+D) on August 14.
“This is a milestone accomplishment for the Philippines since the launch of the original Protocol in 2013. The Revised Protocol heralds a more comprehensive, standardized, and harmonized approach to the case management of child victims that is more responsive to the evolving landscape and emerging issues which render children vulnerable to abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination,” the DOJ stated in a release.
The revised protocol was developed by the Committee for the Special Protection of Children (CSPC), the primary inter-agency body mandated to ensure the effective implementation of child protection laws and to strengthen legal safeguards for child victims established under Executive Order (EO) 275 (1995) and EO 53 (2011) in cases involving violations of Republic Act (RA) 7610, or the Special Protection of Children.
The launch will be marked by a ceremonial signing of CSPC Resolution 01, s. 2025, which proposes the adoption of the revised protocol by all CSPC member-agencies and partners, reflecting a united commitment to strengthen child protection services across the country.
The revised protocol aims to improve efficiency and accountability among duty bearers while ensuring that all interventions uphold the best interests of the child, safeguard their rights, and promote their well-being.
“Since the launch of the original Protocol in 2013, the landscape of child protection has significantly evolved. Emerging forms of abuse, the enactment of new child-related laws, rapid advancements in technology, and the increasing complexity of inter-agency coordination have highlighted the urgent need for an updated and more responsive framework,” the DOJ emphasized.
“The CSPC remains hopeful that the Revised Protocol will not only enhance coordination and responsiveness among government agencies and stakeholders but also pave the way toward a safer, more just future for all Filipino children.”