Trigger warning: this article contains mentions of abuse, exploitation, and childhood trauma.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) lauded Liza Soberano’s bravery for speaking up against child abuse and exploitation in Sarah Bahbah's recent podcast documentary film hybrid episode.
Despite the pain and stigma surrounding child abuse and trauma, the DSWD and its attached agency, the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), expressed its appreciation to the actress on Tuesday, August 19.
According to the agency, Liza’s story helps raise awareness of the importance of protecting children.
“Speaking up about one’s past is never easy, especially for children who have gone through painful and traumatic experiences. It’s like revisiting wounds that haven’t fully healed,” DSWD Spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said in a press release.
“That’s why we deeply respect and value those who come forward despite the difficulty. Their stories help open important conversations so that these experiences no longer define the lives of future generations of children,” she added.
In an earlier statement, the CWC praised Liza, stating that her story reflects the painful reality that Filipino children face. These include growing up in environments that expose them to trauma, instability, and harm from those who are meant to nurture them.
The Filipina-American actress bared her past in an episode of Sarah Bahbah’s “Can I Come In?”
Previously unknown to many, Liza opened up about her childhood marked by instability and challenges of growing up in a broken home. These experiences shaped her perspective in life and influenced her journey moving forward in the entertainment industry.
“No child should endure physical, emotional, or psychological suffering at the hands of their own parents or guardians. It is a stark reminder of the urgent need to strengthen our protective mechanisms to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, loving, and supportive environment,” the CWC said in a statement.
Moreover, the agency stressed the long-term consequences of childhood trauma, stating that children who experience violence during their formative years often carry invisible wounds into adulthood.
Echoing the CWC’s concerns, the DSWD highlighted the importance of early intervention, psychosocial support, and empowering families to create safe and nurturing homes through the Parent Effectiveness Service (PES).
Under the Republic Act (RA) No. 11908 in 2022, the program assists parents and parent substitutes by providing them with knowledge and skills on parenting. This, in turn, would provide parents with the knowledge and skills to respond to duties and responsibilities concerning early childhood development, behavior management of younger and older children, husband-wife relationships, prevention of child abuse, healthcare, and other challenges of parenting.
In line with this, the DSWD said the MAKABATA Helpline 1383 is now available for urgent concerns related to child abuse, neglect, and discrimination. The said hotline is operational all day.
You may contact the hotline through its landline, Facebook, and Instagram at 1383.
Mobile users may also call the following numbers:
SMART
- 0919-354-1383
GLOBE
- 0915-802-2375
People may also report through the e-Gov Super App by selecting the “child abuse” option.
