International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume V, Issue X, October 2021 | ISSN 2454–6186

Experiences on the Implementation of Child Protection Policies

Hazel S. Zamora
Graduate Student, Master of Arts in Educational Management, Davao del Norte State College, Philippines

Abstract- This study aims to determine the experiences of school heads in the Division of Panabo City on implementing the Child Protection Policy (CPP). An in-Depth Interview (IDI) and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) were conducted to confirm and validate the responses of the school heads. Findings revealed that school heads faced challenges such as the lack of adequate financial and human resources and the negative dispositions of students. In addressing such challenges, it was noted that school heads strictly implemented the policy’s provisions, sought the assistance of various stakeholders, and implemented strong communication efforts. It was then learned that an effective CPP implementation might only happen if school heads employ child-centered and policy-based decision making, establish positive relationships with stakeholders, and strengthen the school’s communication mechanisms. Overall, it is recommended that school heads enjoin stakeholders to participate in the decision-making and implementation of the policy, build relationships with parents, and launch school initiatives following the law, CPP program, and DepEd vision, mission, and core values.

Keywords- Philippines, phenomenological approach, Child Protection Policy, elementary

I. INTRODUCTION

Children are recognized as competent social actors with valuable perspectives and knowledge that hold fundamental rights who actively interact with their social world (Corsaro, 2011; Central to this understanding is the idea that everyone must ensure that children are protected from abuse, neglect, and violence.(United Nations Children’s Fund [UNICEF], 2016a).

In its latest findings, the WHO’s Global Status Report on Preventing Violence Against Children (2020) stated that one out of two children or 1 billion children suffer from some form of violence each year, and children aged 11-15 who are bullied at school are 13% less likely to graduate from school. In this sense, the leadership of school heads is essential to the success of child protection school-based programs Committee for Children, (2014). Furthermore, school leaders must review their present child protection policies and procedures in order to create a complete child protection strategy for their school that is consistent with current research and best practices. (Committee for Children, 2014).