Written By Corin Danell David and Marianne Basoyang
The University of Baguio’s Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (BAPS) program led four educational sessions titled “Protecting Our Children: Understanding Their Rights Under the Matatag Curriculum and the Anti-Child Abuse Law.” Held from February 20 to March 6, 2026, at Apolinario Mabini Elementary School, the sessions empowered Grades 4–6 pupils with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities.
BAPS faculty members Mr. Jose Dela Cruz, Ms. Sunshine Palatic, and Ms. Beverly Laltoog led the sessions, with one facilitated by BAPS alumna Ms. Francis Ann Cheska G. Delim. Additional BAPS faculty, students, and exchange students from Khon Kaen University, Thailand, served as co-facilitators.
The Matatag Curriculum—introduced by the Department of Education and championed by partners like the University of Baguio—prioritizes focused, values-driven learning. It emphasizes children’s rights to quality education, protection, participation, development, and play, in line with the Anti-Child Abuse Law.
Facilitators made sessions interactive through hands-on exercises, group discussions, and scenario-based tasks. Pupils identified daily actions linked to their rights (e.g., safe learning environments) and responsibilities (e.g., showing respect). They explored concepts like healthy discipline versus abuse, fostering self-protection skills.
These sessions illuminated children’s rights to a safe, nurturing childhood while reinforcing their role as compassionate, empathetic future leaders. The initiative advances BAPS Program Educational Objectives—functional leadership, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning—and supports key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being. The sessions teach self-protection and healthy discipline.
- SDG 4: Quality Education. Deliver values-driven lessons on rights through hands-on activities therefore addressing learning gaps and building foundational skills.
- SDG 5: Gender Equality, Promote equal rights discussions, ensuring boys/girls recognize protection from discrimination regardless of gender
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. Empower vulnerable elementay pupils with knowledge to combat exploitation.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, Strengthen local school partnership for child-safe environments, enhancing community resilience through awareness.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Educate on anti-abuse laws promoting justice, nonviolence, and accountable institutions.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Through such collaborations, the University of Baguio and partner schools champion child protection and holistic education. Involve the university, alumni, Thai exchange partners and the Department of Education for collaborative child protection efforts.
