SENATOR Risa Hontiveros filed a bill that seeks to institutionalize and enhance the role of Parent-Teacher and Community Associations in promoting the welfare of children.

Senate Bill 1400 or the proposed Parent-Teacher and Community Association Act aims to amend Presidential Decree No. 603 or The Child and Youth Welfare Code.

The bill aims to institutionalize Parent-Teacher and Community Associations to better focus and direct their efforts in order to improve their children’s success, both in school and outside of it.

“Creating and fostering a community that is geared towards advocating for the rights and welfare of children creates immeasurable value with benefits that are far-reaching,” Hontivero said in her explanatory note.

“A community of parents, teachers, and concerned organizations collaborating towards a common goal in promoting the welfare, well-being, and success of their children generates great benefits not only to the families of these students, but to their community as a whole,” she added.

The measure recognizes the importance of developing, engaging and encouraging the participation of the children in creating policies or programs that will address their concerns.

The PTCA will consult the children through their Student Councils in the creation of projects, programs or activities.

“When a school has an involved Student Council and PCTA, parents are better informed and engaged, teachers are more empowered, and perhaps more importantly, students are happier,” Hontiveros said.