Opening Statement of Sen. TG Guingona
Children in Situation of Armed Conflict

Today is our first hearing on 5 bills involving children in situations of armed conflict. These include children who are involved in, affected by, or displaced by armed conflict.

The task of protecting children in situations of armed conflict is difficult but it is our duty to take initial steps.

We wish to hear your views, your criticisms, and your proposed solutions so that we can come up with a law that is responsive to the real needs of theses children.

As a representative who hails from Mindanao, where armed conflict is a reality in certain areas, my commitment to this piece of legislation is extremely personal. Thus, I humbly call on each one of you today to help me ensure that the law that we will pass will be a law that addresses the realities.