Manila: The Council for Women and Children (CWC) on Friday emphasized the necessity of equipping parents with the knowledge to protect their children from various harms, especially online abuses and violence. According to Philippines News Agency, as part of the National Children's Month (NCM) celebration, CWC Executive Director and Undersecretary Angelo Tapales announced plans for a conference aimed at helping parents better shield their children. The CWC, affiliated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), is responsible for formulating policies and monitoring the implementation of laws, programs, and projects for children and youth under 18. The council is set to host its 7th Conference on Parenting in the Digital Age on November 25, coinciding with the 32nd National Children's Month celebrations. Tapales emphasized the importance of educating parents on the use of the Internet and gadgets to enhance their ability to protect their children. The CWC advocates for a unified approach to combat Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), urging collaboration among the government, parents, families, communities, and power holders to ensure the protection of children's rights. In 2023, the Philippine National Police's Women and Children Protection Center recorded 19,756 reports of child abuse, though it did not specify how many were online cases. Tapales outlined several activities planned for Children's Month, including a kick-off ceremony in Cebu City from November 5 to 7. The CWC will also participate in the House of Representatives' NCM celebration from November 18 to 21, featuring booths that highlight the council's mandate, the Makabata Helpline, and informational materials advocating for safe spaces for children and youth. Additionally, the council will launch the 4th National Plan of Action for Children (NPAC), a comprehensive government policy document for 2023 to 2028. The NPAC will employ a multi-sectoral, rights-based approach to progressively advance children's righ ts to survival, development, protection, and participation throughout the Philippines.