THOUSANDS of pedophiles are operating worldwide, said international group Terre des Hommes Netherlands.
Hoping that pedophiles will not bring their operations to the Philippines, Terre des Hommes is partnering with the government and local organizations to stop pedophilia.
During the 888 News Forum yesterday, Dr. Alwin B. De Leon, Terre des Hommes Philippines country manager, said that the organization's head office in The Netherlands is extending financial assistance to groups advocating for the protection of children against child labor and child trafficking.
In Cebu, Terre des Hommes has partnered with the Children's Legal Bureau, The Share-A-Child Movement Inc., Bidlisiw Foundation, and Fellowship for Organizing Endeavors Inc.
“The main beneficiaries of our organization are the children who are victims, survivors, and at risk of child sex tourism and online child abuse.
Terre des Hommes is also eyeing the Rotary Club of Cebu East under Alastair Schurch as a new partner.
Cordova
The organization's program covers the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, Naga and Toledo and the municipalities of Cordova, Consolacion, Argao and Balamban.
Over the last few years, Cordova has been a venue for cybersex crimes.
De leon said that the Terre des Hommes will sponsor programs, services and activities that will prevent child exploitation.
Among the programs are: education for children, socio-economic development for vulnerable families, awareness campaigns, training for the public, vulnerable groups and government officials, and safe Internet use for children.
The organization is also willing to sponsor medical and psychological care, shelter and legal assistance, and income-generating opportunities to victims of child exploitation.
Research
Another program that the international group is interested in is a research on child sex tourism.
De leon added they are also helping in the prosecution of violators against children's rights and train the judicial sector focusing on Commercially Sexually Exploited Children (CSEC) through online abuse and child sex tourism.
Terre des Hommes also provides aid to victims of CSEC while strengthening community watch groups or peer support groups that gather relevant information on suspected sexual exploitation of children.