We facilitated an Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) awareness seminar at Balara High School, one of our partner schools for the Manila Slum Program. Even though the academic year is about to end, the principal still made time for our program. We were even invited to return next school year to continue our advocacy efforts! These opportunities make us truly grateful for the connection we have made.
This time, we engaged 70 student leaders and equipped them with knowledge that they can share with their classmates. When we talked about modern technology, they acknowledged how it makes studying easier, while also recognizing that minors can be easily exposed to predators, possibly exposing them to OSAEC. The participants were highly attentive and engaged throughout the session.
They know that OSAEC is not an easy topic to discuss, especially in their age group, yet they recognize the importance of looking out for others who may be at risk. They asked thoughtful questions like: “What should we do when we suspect someone is being abused?” or “How can we reassure them that they can open up and seek help when the abuser could be a parent or another family member?” In the end, we were all able to conclude that when abuse happens, it should definitely be reported. There may be a few moments of discomfort in reporting it, but it is definitely better than the harm caused to an individual.
Hearing these questions and feeling the energy in the room gave us hope. OSAEC prevention is not only about information dissemination, but it is also about empowering young leaders to talk about these difficult topics more and let them create safe spaces for these important conversations amongst their peers. Little by little, we are helping protect one child at a time through youth empowerment.
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