(CNN Philippines) — Sen. Pia Cayetano has strong words for people who witness child abuse: “I call on everyone to be vigilant about such cases in our respective communities. You don’t need to wait for it to be posted on social media and become viral. If you see a child being subjected to any form of abuse, speak up and report it at once. Don’t allow the innocent to be subjected to these degrading acts.”
The senator was referring to the photo of a child wearing a leash like a dog that went viral on social media recently.
She said she was thankful that the Department of Social Welfare and Development took action on the child’s case.
On Tuesday (May 26), the child was rescued by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Orani, Bataan and is now under the temporary custody DSWD-Reception and Study Center for Children in Pampanga.
The child’s mother will undergo psychological assessment and counseling before the DSWD decides whether a case against her is warranted.
The senator also referred to another case where a child was photographed with a cigarette from his lips.
Cayetano added she was “appalled that a parent would think that giving a child a cigarette is funny or cute,” and said she was “certain” the DSWD would also take prompt action on the case.
Cayetano said she was thankful that social media has become another platform to help stop cases of child abuse, but she was concerned about the other cases that do not get attention.
The senator went on to add that with World no Tobacco Day being observed on May 31, it is time that parents and youth be educated on the hazards of tobacco use.
She said: “It is not uncommon to see adults who smoke in front of or near children. Many times, they are in the same enclosed space or even caring the child. Not only are they exposing the children to second-hand smoke but they are also showcasing bad habits to the young.”
Related: Mom of child on a leash to undergo psychological assessment
