THE COUNCIL for the Welfare of Children (CWC), under the Department of Social Welfare and Development, has introduced new guidelines aimed at helping media practitioners ethically and sensitively report stories involving minors.

According to CWC Undersecretary Angelo Tapales, the proposed guidelines are intended for journalists, content creators, and social media personalities. They promote child-sensitive storytelling that respects and upholds the rights of children, particularly in media coverage and online content.

“The guidelines are designed to help media practitioners protect the dignity and rights of children in all forms of reporting,” Tapales said.

The guidelines include five key principles: upholding children’s right to privacy, treating children with respect, encouraging meaningful participation, ensuring dignified portrayal, and handling sensitive stories with care and responsibility.

These principles serve as a framework to help media professionals avoid exploiting, stereotyping, or endangering minors in their reporting.

Tapales clarified that the guidelines are not mandatory but are strongly recommended. However, legal implications may arise if violations of the Data Privacy Act occur, particularly concerning the unauthorized release of identifying information about minors.

The CWC emphasized that while the media plays a vital role in raising awareness about children’s issues, this must be done with responsibility and care, ensuring that no harm comes to young individuals in the process.