'Maging Sino Ka Man' praised for promoting 'positive parenting'

"Maging Sino Ka Man" has earned praises for promoting "positive parenting" in one of its episodes last week.

In a media release, non-profit organization Save the Children Philippines cited the scene where Dino (Barbie Forteza) stopped Carding (David Licauco) from using physical harm to discipline Kulot, one of the children in his care.

Carding threatened to hit Kulot using his belt, but Dino argued with him.

"Pagmamahal at hindi pagmamalupit ang paraan para makinig ang mga bata. Pagtutuwid at hindi pananakit ang kailangan para matuto sila," Dino said.

Save the Children commended the series for tackling "parenting messages on raising children in love, dignity, and respect without resorting to violent means."

"[P]ositive and non-violent parenting approaches are much more effective and have optimal advantage of bringing out the best in children," the organization said.

In "Maging Sino Ka Man," Carding has several children in his care: the teenage Loleng as well as four small children: Kulot, Antok, Peklat, and Hika.

To provide for the children, Carding steals goods from shipping trucks. Kulot learns to steal as well, snatching wallets so he can have the money to go home.

Dino calls out Carding for being a bad example and not teaching Kulot what is right, but Carding says it's good that Kulot is now able to survive in this difficult world.

Angry after their confrontation, Carding vents his ire on Kulot and gets his belt out, but Dino finds them in time.

According to Save the Children, corporal punishment is still one of the most popular means to discipline children in the Philippines.

The Women and Children Protection Unit Report of Council for the Welfare of Children found that almost 9,000 cases of children experiencing physical and humiliating punishment have been reported last year.

The Philippines does not have legislation against corporal punishment at home, but a Positive Parenting Bill has been filed in Congress.

"Maging Sino Ka Man" airs weekdays on GMA Telebabad at 8 p.m. after "24 Oras." It is a remake of the iconic '90s film starring Sharon Cuneta and Robin Padilla.

The series also stars Juancho Triviño, Jean Garcia, Tonton Gutierrez, Mikoy Morales, ER Ejercito, Jeric Raval, Rain Matienzo, and Faith Da Silva.

—MGP, GMA Integrated News