The Quezon City Government acknowledges its role, obligation and commitment to ensure the child’s survival, development and protection and should be given high priority by actively pursuing programs and mechanisms for the welfare of children.

In 2010, the 1st QC Children’s Summit was organized by the Office of Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte where stakeholders as well as child-advocates were gathered to identify the priority issues and concerns of our city’s children. One agenda that was formulated is a STRONGER COMMITMENT TO PROTECTING AND ENSURING CHILDREN’S RIGHTS. All children have the same rights and all rights are interconnected and of equal importance. Last year, the QC Government reiterated its commitment in the pursuit of building a child-friendly city. A city that protects children’s rights, helps meet their basic needs and expand their opportunities to reach their full potential.

The QC children’s code was drafted and underwent a thorough study, from an internal assessment of existing laws and ordinances, external assessment of other national and international legislation and a review of the situation of the QC’s children through 106 community workshops held last year. The final draft was presented in the series of consultations with NGOs, POs and other government offices / departments District-wide consulations together with the Barangay Councils for the Protection of Children, community leaders and child advocates were also organized to gather community voices, most especially the voices of our young ones to take part in local legislation.

In May 2012, the 18th City Council has passed landmark ordinance that will cover child rights and ensure the protection and development of all QC children. This ordinance will become the basis for program development and implementation and a guide for our QC Council for the Protection of Children and the drafting of the Local Development Plan for Children.

The Children’s Code is the City’s guiding principle in promoting and protecting the rights of our children. The ceremonial  signing of the ordinance by Mayor Herbert M. Bautista last October 15, 2012 during the Children’s Month Celebration.