A three-day children’s summit to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) was held at the Museo Pambata in Manila last November 18 to 20, 2009. The summit brought together 50 children, aged 11 to 16 years old, from the Philippines and Thailand, with all the kids coming from different backgrounds.

The summit aimed to raise awareness on the Convention on the Rights of the Child through creative play shops, song writing and other child-centered activities. ProbeTV was there to witness this laudable event.

Though participants came from different backgrounds, nothing held them back from actively participating in all the activities. We saw how the kids were really excited to take part in the games and even in long discussions. The kids openly shared their experiences and were very confident amidst a diverse crowd.

Religion and even different dialects was never a barrier, one big proof that kids indeed understand each other. We also saw how learning can be fun and that kids can learn from each other. The highlight of the summit was the kids making new bonds and friendships.

At the end of the event participants crafted messages and wishes to parents, agencies, different sectors and even to other children, to be aware and be responsive on the rights of the child. The output of this summit will be included as part of the Council for the Welfare of Children’s report to the United Nations.