DSWD officials and partner groups sign agreement on Dec. 12, 2025 to boost efforts against early, child, and forced marriages in the Philippines. (Photo from DSWD)
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian led the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with government, civil society, and development partners on Friday to strengthen efforts against child, early, and forced marriages and unions (CEFMU).
The MOA formalizes collaboration among national agencies, local governments, and partners to implement programs that protect children and prevent forced unions.
The signing coincided with the launch of the National Action Plan on Ending CEFMU at Novotel Manila in Cubao, Quezon City.
The National Action Plan is the country’s first multi-sectoral framework to intensify the implementation of Republic Act 11596.
RA 11596 prohibits child marriage and imposes penalties on violators of the law.
Senator Risa Hontiveros was represented by Ms. Fay Gumba during the event.
United Nations Children’s Fund Philippines Deputy Representative Behzad Noubary and UNFPA Philippines Assistant Secretary Jose Roi Avena also attended.
Other participants included PLCPD Executive Director Ma. Aurora Quilala and CWC Executive Director Undersecretary Angelo Tapales.
DSWD Undersecretaries Monina Josefina Romualdez and Edu Punay were present to support the signing and launch.
The partnership signals a unified approach among national agencies, local governments, and development partners to end CEFMU nationwide.