UN Special Rapporteur Mama Fatima Singhateh is in Manila to check on the country’s programs in shielding children from sexual exploitation.

She will examine the protection of children against sexual exploitation, child marriage, child-trafficking for sexual exploitation, exploitation of children living in the streets, and the sale of children through illegal adoption, among others.

She will assess the progress made in combating and preventing the sale and sexual exploitation of children in light of international human rights norms and standards.

Singhateh will hold discussions in Bohol, Cebu, Cotabato, Manila, Pampanga and Valenzuela with representatives of the executive, legislature and judiciary, local and municipal authorities, civil society organisations, child shelters, members of the international community, children as well as the local communities.

She will be in the country until December 8, 2022.

She will present a comprehensive report of her country visit to the Human Rights Council in March 2024.