Manila: Catholic Church on the frontline against human trafficking

Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos appealed to the faithful on the occasion of the World Day that the UN is celebrating today with a special focus on minors. There are still many people, the prelate stressed, who live in conditions of modern slavery. It is especially important to protect children, the most vulnerable victims.

Manila (AsiaNews) - The Catholic Church in the Philippines has called on the faithful of the country to prevent human trafficking in any way. The appeal was launched on the occasion of World Anti-Trafficking Day, established by the United Nations ten years ago and celebrated every year on 30 July. This year's theme is dedicated to minors.

Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos, vice-president of the Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (ECMI) of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), said in a message: ’The fight against child trafficking is of paramount importance.

‘Prayer changes things,’ he added, ‘Even if we feel powerless in certain situations, mercy, which is our speciality, counts. Therefore, we must unite in prayer to end child trafficking and protect vulnerable lives. Secondly, we must take immediate action to combat child trafficking, safeguard vulnerable groups and provide support to victims,’ the bishop said, also emphasising the importance of raising public awareness.

"We must not only support policy reforms, but also improve law enforcement. Finally, it is crucial to establish additional resources such as child sponsorship programmes, which provide education, nutritious food, health care and life skills training,’ the prelate continued.

"We are all bound by the same cause, the same challenges and the same commitment. With fervent prayers and faith, the desire God puts in our hearts will move His heart and bring a blessing,’ he said. "We must make every effort to ensure that no child is left behind in this struggle. It is time to act and make a positive impact. By working together, we can create a safer world for children and pave the way for a brighter future."

According to the International Labour Organisation, there are an estimated 40 million people in modern slavery worldwide. They are often forced to work for little or no compensation.

In addition to forced labour, there are many forms of human trafficking. They can consist of sexual exploitation, forced marriage and even the recruitment of child soldiers. The fight against human trafficking requires focusing on the most vulnerable. Children, in particular, account for almost one third of victims of human trafficking globally, and girls are the majority.

• Philippines
• human trafficking