The Commission on Human Rights lauds the signing into law of the “Magna Carta of the Poor” or Republic Act 11291, and the passage of House Bill 9103 or the “Magna Carta of the Out-of-School Youth (OSY)” in its third and final reading in the House of Representatives. This is yet another positive development in the country’s goals in championing the rights of the vulnerable and marginalized sectors in the Philippines.

Poverty is still seen as one of the widespread problems in the country which creates extreme effects to health, housing, well-being, and education of multitudes who are considered poor. With the passage of the RA 11291, those living below poverty line are presented with measures and opportunities to make sure that they benefit in all basic services the government has to offer. This will create a bridge linking them to the fulfillment of their right to food self-sufficiency, access to employment opportunities, quality education, and obtain sufficient health services. One more commendable component of the new law is the creation of pro-poor programs in partnership with private entities.

Another area of concern is the rising number of youth that are hindered from attending school. Whatever the factors may be, no access to education further imprisons them to the shackles of injustice, discrimination, abuse, and exploitation. It also puts the potential of the youth and their role in nation-building to waste. HB 9103 recognizes these problems and plans to create solutions to thousands of out-of-school youths in the country

The Commission is looking forward to the soon implementation of both RA 11291 and HB 9103 as they will benefit the underprivileged and create different approaches to combat the cycle of poverty in the country.