‘Rights violation’: UNICEF warns against detaining minors at NCR going outdoors amid rising COVID

MANILA – On Friday, UNICEF warned against banning minors in Metro Manila from leaving their homes for 2 weeks amid the increase in COVID-19 cases, as this could allegedly affect their mental well-being while the pandemic persists.

In a statement, the United Nations agency said the Metro Manila Council (MMC) move this week could be considered a “violation of children’s rights.”

“While efforts to contain the spread of infections require public health and social measures, UNICEF emphasizes that these measures must consider the highest level of acceptability and feasibility, proven efficacy, and must minimize negative consequences on the health and well-being of individuals. all members of society. “The statement said.

“They must respond to the best interests of the child; it shouldn’t cause any more damage; and should always consider the preservation of the well-being and dignity of the child, “added the humanitarian organization.

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This week, the MMC decided to allow only residents between the ages of 18 and 65 to leave their homes, according to a statement released by the Manila Metropolitan Development Authority (MMDA). Before this, local chief executives already allowed people between the ages of 15 and 65 to leave their homes.

The development was also accompanied by the re-implementation of a 2-week curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. and localized closures to slow the spread of COVID-19.

However, UNICEF disagreed, saying the country’s blockade, considered the longest in the world, is already affecting children’s mental health due to “restrictive containment measures,” which included banning them from seeing their extended families. , teachers and friends, among other people.

“They have been learning from home, often facing incredibly challenging circumstances. For those who experience violence, neglect or abuse in the home, the confinements left them stranded with abusers and without the required support, ”said the organization.

The UN agency quoted the World Health Organization, which said the pandemic has already disrupted mental health services in 93 percent of countries worldwide, noting that the request for mental health support has been increasing.

He also urged the regional council to “issue a resolution” that takes into account the “best interests” of the child.

“Children of all ages can be allowed to play and engage in sports and physical exercise in outdoor areas, provided that the required public health measures (social distancing and use of masks) are strictly adhered to,” it reads, citing the community quarantine. guidelines issued by the inter-institutional working group that leads the country’s response to the pandemic.

Local governments should also “find better ways” to manage the health emergency, such as consulting children and communities about decisions that may affect them. Sanitary measures must also be “evidence-based” and communicated “transparently”.

“We need to take into account the needs and rights of children, as we continue to protect them and all members of the public from the increased risk of COVID-19 infections.”

A public health expert previously warned that children can become super spreaders if they are allowed to leave their homes.

The country recorded the highest number of daily infections since the pandemic began on Friday, with 7,103. The number of active cases at 73,264 is also considered the highest in almost 7 months.

At the end of last year, some experts said that minors in areas with low risk of transmission of the virus should be able to go outside, but should remain in open spaces and parks.