In recent times, a distressing uptick in missing children and minors has become a cause for concern. This disconcerting trend has drawn the attention of concerned citizens in the Makati and Taguig areas, who have taken to social media to report incidents involving abandoned and missing children. One such incident underscores the pressing need for intervention.

In the early hours, before dawn, near the Iglesia Ni Cristo church in Pembo, Makati, an encounter unfolded that shed light on the plight of these vulnerable children. A child, approximately 4 to 5 years old, was found in dire circumstances. Clad in a shabby and dirt-ridden red Spiderman sweatshirt and loose black pajamas, he introduced himself as JD. He appeared lost and hungry, initially claiming ignorance of his place of residence and soliciting money for sustenance.

The child’s situation begged immediate attention. However, when queried about his whereabouts, JD responded with a disheartening, “Malayo, di ko alam,” signifying a severe lack of security and guidance.

Witnessing this incident, a concerned community resident also inquired about the child’s home. Their shared uncertainty raised concerns about the child’s safety and well-being.

JD’s reluctance to engage with questions was evident, especially when suggested to visit the nearest barangay hall. It was apparent that his immediate concern was acquiring monetary assistance.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, a decision was made to use this pressing need for money as an opportunity to dig deeper into JD’s circumstances. Upon the promise of financial support, JD divulged that he resided nearby, gesturing toward the direction of the Barangay Rizal area.

JD’s revelation about being outside so early in the morning was clear and poignant – “Nanlilimos pangkain.” He disclosed his mother’s name as Janine, and his father, Teddy, who worked as a laborer, specifically in the demanding field of “hakot lupa.”

According to JD, his parents permitted him to beg for money, rationalizing it with the statement, “Malimos ka anak, wala tayong pangkain.” Whether JD’s words were coached or unadulterated truths remained a question mark.

JD further shared that he was five years old and had four siblings, illustrating the direness of his family’s situation.

When probed once more about his place of residence, JD hesitantly responded, “Opo, diyan lang,” further emphasizing his precarious living conditions.

UPDATE: A concerned netizen has responded to a Facebook post regarding the missing or panhandling child, confirming that he is indeed from Comembo, which is located a few miles away from the site of the incident near the INC church in Pembo, Makati. The netizen stated that local authorities in Comembo ensured that he was safely returned home, but it appears that he has once again left. This raises the question: How could his parents allow him to roam the streets at such late hours, begging for money?

However, another netizen who claims to personally know the child reported that he is being subjected to physical abuse by his parents, which is the reason he is fleeing from home.

This encounter raises critical questions about the broader issue of missing children. It prompts us to consider the following measures when encountering such vulnerable youngsters:

1. Document the encounter for your own safety. Children, particularly those aged 10 or below, should not be left unattended outside during late hours.
2. Engage the child with straightforward questions about their residence, parental information, and age.
3. Seek assistance from fellow community members whenever possible.
4. Distinguish between genuine cases of missing children and instances of panhandling.
5. In cases where panhandling seems likely, offer what assistance you can and inquire if the child is being directed by their parents to solicit money.

The encounter with JD serves as a stark reminder that we must remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the welfare of our community’s children. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that children like JD are protected, provided for, and granted the opportunities they deserve to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.