Presidential decree 603 or the Child and Youth Welfare Code, is a law in the Philippines that protects and supports children and youth. It was issued in December 1974
Similar to Presidential decree 603 or the Child and Youth Welfare Code, is a law in the Philippines that protects and supports children and youth. It was issued in December 1974
Presidential decree 603 or the Child and Youth Welfare Code, is a law in the Philippines that protects and supports children and youth. It was issued in December 1974
DECLARATION OF POLICY
•The child is considered a vital asset to the nation, and efforts must be made to promote their
welfare and opportunities for a fulfilling life.
• Children are not merely subjects of the State; their individual traits and aptitudes should be
nurtured, provided they align with the general welfare.
• The family plays a crucial role in shaping a child's character, and a harmonious home
environment is essential for development.
• Strong family ties should be encouraged, but not at the expense of community engagement.
• The government is responsible for supporting parents in raising children for civic efficiency,
with schools, churches, and communities also playing supportive roles
3.
TITLE AND SCOPEOF CODE
• The Child and Youth Welfare Code applies to individuals under twenty-one
years of age, excluding those who are legally emancipated.
• The terms "child," "minor," and "youth" refer to individuals within this age
range
4.
RIGHTS OF THECHILD
• All children are entitled to rights without discrimination based on various
factors.
• Rights include:
• Dignity and worth from conception, with a right to be born well.
• A wholesome family life providing love, care, and security.
• Opportunities for well-rounded personal development.
• Access to basic needs such as nutrition, clothing, shelter, and medical care.
• A moral upbringing to strengthen character.
5.
RIGHTS OF THECHILD CONT.
• Education suited to their abilities.
• Safe recreational opportunities.
• Protection from exploitation and harmful influences.
• A supportive community environment.
• State care and protection when parental support is lacking.
• A government that inspires faith in democracy.
• Freedom to grow in a peaceful and understanding atmosphere.
6.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THECHILD
• Children must strive for an upright life, respect parents, and cooperate in
family unity.
• They should develop their potential through education and respect cultural
values and authorities.
• Active participation in civic affairs is encouraged, as is the promotion of
human rights and world peace.
7.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THECHILD
• Children must strive for an upright life, respect parents, and cooperate in
family unity.
• They should develop their potential through education and respect cultural
values and authorities.
• Active participation in civic affairs is encouraged, as is the promotion of
human rights and world peace.
8.
Commencement of CivilPersonality
-A child's civil personality begins at conception for all beneficial purposes.
Abortion
-Abortion laws are governed by existing legal provisions.
Non-disclosure of Birth Records
-Birth records are confidential and can only be disclosed under specific condition
with penalties for violations.
Child's Welfare Paramount
-The child's welfare is the primary consideration in matters of care, custody,
education, and property.
Levels of Growth
-Children should receive adequate care and guidance throughout their
developmental stages.
Phases of Development
-Special protections and opportunities must be provided to ensure comprehensi
development in a dignified manner.
9.
Promotion of Health
-Healthpromotion starts with prenatal and postnatal care, with responsibilities
shared among health and educational entities.
Education
-Schools must assist parents in providing quality education.
Social and Emotional Growth
-Healthy social and emotional development is a collaborative effort between
home, schools, and welfare agencies.
Morality
-High moral principles should be instilled in children, particularly at home, school,
and church.
Spiritual Values
-The State should encourage the promotion of children's spiritual well-being
according to their religious beliefs.
Civic Conscience
-Children should be raised in an atmosphere of understanding and responsibility
as community members.
.
10.
Parental Authority
-Joint parentalauthority is exercised by both parents, with the father's decision
prevailing in case of disagreement unless otherwise ordered by the court.
-Grandparents may be consulted but cannot interfere with parental authority.
Dependent, Abandoned, or Neglected Child
-Such children are under the authority of suitable persons or institutions after
being declared abandoned.
Adoption
-The Code outlines who may adopt, who may not adopt, and the necessary
consents required for adoption.
-Adoption procedures include trial custody periods and the confidentiality of
proceedings.
Rights of Parents
-Parents have the primary right to their children's company and upbringing,
including the right to discipline.
11.
Duties of Parents
-Parentsmust provide affection, moral guidance, supervision, and support, and
encourage their children's participation in family discussions.
Liabilities of Parents
-Parents are liable for damages caused by their children and may face criminal
liability for neglect or abuse.
Assistance to Parents
-The State provides support to parents in need, including financial aid and social
services.
Foster Care
-Foster homes must be licensed and supervised, with a preference for foster care
over institutional care.
Access to Educational Opportunities
-The State ensures that no child is denied admission to public schools and provides
assistance to indigent families.
Role of the Home
-The home must support the school in the child's development.
12.
Rights of theChurch
-The State respects the Church's rights in the moral upbringing of children.
Duties of the Community
-The community is responsible for ensuring a safe and healthy environment for children.
Council for the Welfare of Children
-A Council is established to coordinate child welfare efforts, with specific powers and
responsibilities.
Implementation of Code
-The Council is responsible for enforcing the Code and can create necessary regulations.
General Penalty
-Violations of the Code without specific penalties are subject to fines or imprisonment.
Repealing Clause
-Inconsistent laws are repealed or modified.
Separability Clause
-If any provision is invalid, the remaining provisions remain effective.
Effectivity Clause
-The Code takes effect six months after approval.