COTABATO CITY — Marking a milestone for youth participation in governance, the first Bangsamoro Children’s Congress brought together more than 25 young leaders from across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The Congress empowered these children to share their perspectives and priorities, contributing directly to regional decision-making and shaping the future of their communities.
Spearheaded by the Regional Sub-Committee for the Welfare of Children (RSCWC), in partnership with the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), Ministry of the Interior and Local Government, and UNICEF Philippines, the three-day Congress highlighted the growing movement to embed children’s participation in shaping policies and programmes that affect their lives.
At the heart of the Congress, the Bangsamoro Children’s Manifesto stood as a powerful testament to the voices of Bangsamoro youth. It is a policy document crafted by children themselves, outlining their priorities, recommendations and calls for action on pressing issues such as online safety, child protection, health, education and climate action.
The Children’s Manifesto, developed through a series of thoughtful, wide-ranging, and participatory discussions, also reflects the children’s perspectives and insights on how BARMM can strengthen systems that keep them safe and help them thrive.
Children have raised a united call for action demanding protection from exploitation and abuse, an end to early and forced marriages and unions, as well as child labor, increased number of classrooms and teachers to ensure quality education, and stronger safeguards against climate-related risks and hazards, among other urgent concerns.
The young delegates presented the Manifesto to government officials, who expressed
support and appreciation for the children’s active participation and valuable insights.
“Children are not just beneficiaries. They are active partners in shaping the very policies that affect their lives. These young leaders possess their own intellect, their own distinct perspectives, and their own powerful voices. This Children’s Manifesto is a clear demonstration of that truth, as it lays down their own priorities and their own concrete recommendations. MSSD believes that meaningful child participation is key to strengthening democratic governance, ensuring child protection mechanisms, thereby building a more equitable future for every Bangsamoro child,” said Atty. Raisa Jajurie, Minister, MSSD.
The event also included the election of new child representatives to the RSCWC and the Regional Juvenile Justice and Welfare Committee for 2026–2028, ensuring sustained child leadership in regional structures and decision-making bodies.
“When children participate in governance, policies become more responsive, inclusive, and effective. UNICEF is proud to support BARMM’s efforts in making child participation meaningful so that every child can influence decisions that shape their future,” said Andreas Wuestenberg, UNICEF Mindanao Field Office Chief.
UNICEF recently welcomed the 2025 Young Advocate Al-Jehad Guiaman. We also welcomed Fatima Darwissa Mansul last year. Both have impactful initiatives that inspire greater youth engagement and drive real change in BARMM.
Their efforts have amplified children’s voices in policy discussions and empowered peers to act. Alongside fellow Young Advocates outside the region such as Sofia Michiko Yamamoto, Rhay Janssen Ocay and Joshua Villalobos, these advocates help champion children’s issues and drive lasting, positive changes for every child in the Philippines.
