Barmm: More than 25 child leaders from across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have gathered for the first Bangsamoro Children's Congress, an event aimed at strengthening youth participation in policymaking and governance.
According to Philippines News Agency, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) reported in a news release on Friday that the three-day Congress, which began on Wednesday, allowed young delegates to identify their priorities and contribute directly to regional decision-making.
The Regional Sub-Committee for the Welfare of Children (RSCWC) led the activity in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government, and UNICEF Philippines.
A significant outcome of the gathering was the Bangsamoro Children's Manifesto, a policy document drafted by the children through a series of participatory discussions.
The manifesto outlines their recommendations on online safety, child protection, health, education, and climate action, along with measures to strengthen systems that promote children's welfare across BARMM.
The young participants also called for increased protection from exploitation and abuse, an end to early and forced marriages and unions, prevention of child labor, and improved access to quality education through additional classrooms and teachers. They also advocated for stronger safeguards against climate-related hazards.
Child representatives presented the manifesto to BARMM officials, who expressed appreciation for the youth's contributions and active involvement in shaping policies.
'Children are not just beneficiaries. They are active partners in shaping the very policies that affect their lives,' MSSD Minister Raisa Jajurie stated.
'Meaningful child participation is key to strengthening democratic governance and child protection mechanisms, thereby building a more equitable future for every Bangsamoro child.'
The Congress also facilitated the election of new child representatives to the RSCWC and the Regional Juvenile Justice and Welfare Committee for 2026 to 2028, ensuring sustained youth engagement in regional bodies.
UNICEF Mindanao Field Office Chief Andreas Wuestenberg emphasized that responsive and inclusive policies emerge when children participate in governance processes.
'UNICEF is proud to support BARMM's efforts in making child participation meaningful so that every child can influence decisions that shape their future,' he added.
UNICEF also highlighted the contributions of Young Advocate Al-Jehad Guiaman, welcomed in 2025, and Fatima Darwissa Mansul, welcomed last year. Their initiatives, along with those of other youth advocates nationwide, have helped amplify children's voices in policy discussions and inspired peers to participate in efforts that advance child rights and welfare.
