DSWD reiterates stance to protect those who cannot protect themselves

The Ministry of Social Affairs and Development (DSWD) on Monday (August 26) reiterated its firm stance on the protection of those who cannot protect themselves, especially minors who are victims of abuse, including human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

“As the agency charged with protecting the welfare of our country’s most vulnerable, the DSWD cannot remain silent in the face of the serious charges against Mr. Apollo Quiboloy. The allegations of human trafficking, sexual exploitation and abuse of minors strike at the heart of what we stand for: protecting those who cannot protect themselves,” the department said in an official statement.

The DSWD statement said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has often expressed how deeply he is moved by the suffering of innocent people.

“The President speaks for many of us when he says that nothing is more painful than seeing a child in need, in pain or without hope. It is the same pain that drives our work at the DSWD,” the social protection agency said.

The ministry pointed out that it is particularly painful when public figures, who should be champions of justice and defenders of vulnerable groups, appear to trivialize these heinous acts or align themselves with those accused of such heinous crimes.

“We must never forget that behind every case are real children, real mothers, and real families who are suffering. The DSWD stands with these victims. We are committed to ensuring that they get the justice they deserve and that their voices are heard,” the DSWD statement said.

The DSWD calls on all leaders to join the agency in protecting the rights of every Filipino child and supporting the legal processes put in place to bring perpetrators to justice.

The ministry specifically called on all leaders and citizens to support the legal processes aimed at protecting innocent people and bringing perpetrators to justice.

“We stand firmly with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in his commitment to create a better future for every Filipino child, where no one is left behind or left to suffer alone,” the DSWD statement said.

Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel continue their manhunt for Mr. Quiboloy and other leaders of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), against whom arrest warrants have been issued in connection with a series of criminal cases.