Children in especially difficult circumstances: the global and Philippine situation.

Children in especially difficult circumstances (CEDC) is a worldwide problem with a ' labyrinth of compartments. It is sad to note that the problem is manmade, and that the most serious threat to our children is humankind itself. The causes of the escalation of this problem are multifactorial, but of great significance are the observations concerning a degradation of values and failing moral, spiritual, psychosocial, and other interpersonal development. It is gargantuan global social concern that has attracted the attention and commitment of the entire world community, from professionals in the various fields of pediatrics, social work, psychology and psychiatry, to legislators, administrators, and politicians.