Ending child marriage: Philippines launches 2025-2028 action plan

The Philippines has taken a decisive step to protect vulnerable children with the launch of the National Action Plan to End Child, Early, and Forced Marriages and Unions (2025-2028) on Friday, December 12.

- BY MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT

The plan aims to strengthen prevention, protection, and support systems, ensuring that every child can grow up free from harmful practices that limit their potential.

The action plan was developed by the Government of the Philippines in collaboration with the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), UNFPA, UNICEF, and civil society partner Philippine Legislators' Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD).

The unveiling ceremony brought together national and local leaders, development partners, and youth advocates, highlighting the importance of collective action against child marriage.

Coordinated action

The plan outlines a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach, focusing on preventing child marriage, strengthening child protection systems, and addressing social norms that perpetuate the practice.

Children and adolescents were actively involved in shaping priorities, ensuring that youth voices guide policies and programs promoting empowerment and gender equality.

"Today is proof that when everyone works as one, we can break a cycle,” said DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian. “Kaya nating itigil ang child, early, and forced marriage and unions (We can stop child, early, and forced marriages and unions),” he added.