The priority health issues and key health determinants of detained Filipino children

Rising societal pressures for the Filipino urban poor population – precipitating increased crime – alongside widespread corruption, have led to many children being both lawfully and unlawfully detained in child rehabilitation centres. Far from rehabilitating, detained children live in prisonlike conditions, despite the illegality of child imprisonment in the country. Their human rights disregarded; they suffer from abuse, neglect and a multitude of health issues, with no access to healthcare. This study aims to explore the experiences and perceptions of formerly detained looked-after adolescents and their carers, on the priority health issues and key health determinants of detained Filipino children.

A qualitative study was conducted in June 2019 in a Filipino children’s home for previously detained children. In total, 18 semi-structured interviews, using photo-elicitation, were conducted to retrospectively explore the experiences of formerly detained children and their carers, who were purposively sampled. Data were transcribed and thematically analysed. Ethical approval was granted by the University of Leeds.

Adolescents and carers commonly reported eight key health issues in detained children, namely, most frequently skin disease, mental health issues and malnutrition, then additionally wounds, respiratory disease, dental problems, sexual health issues and gastrointestinal issues. Six determinants of health in detainment centres were identified as follows: hygiene, food, weather, overcrowding, facilities and safeguarding issues.

The illegality and corruption associated with child detention centres mean the situation of detained Filipino children is difficult to assess directly. This study combats this by exploring the experiences of formerly detained children and their carers, to retrospectively assess the health of illegally detained Filipino Children.