DSWD opposes plan to amend juvenile law

CEBU, Philippines -  The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Region-7 is opposed to the proposed amendments of the Juvenile Justice System and Welfare Act, which exempts minors from criminal liabilities.

DSWD-7 information officer Jeybee Binghay said the law enforcers should go after the big ones who are just using the minors to commit crimes.

“Why don’t you go to the one who are using the kids? We should go after the big ones who are using the minors nganong punish-an man nato ang mga bata adto ta sa gagamit sa mga bata,” Binghay said.

Secretary Jesse Robredo of the Department of Interior and Local Government has proposed to the legislative department to initiate the amendment of the Republic Act 9344 because it has contributed to the increasing number of minors committing crimes.

It was also observed that some lawless elements are using minors to perpetrate crimes knowing that they are exempted of criminal prosecution. The law provides that minors, 15 years and below, does not have criminal liability.

Binghay said instead of amending the law, it should be reinforced and fully implemented especially the diversion program intended for the Children in Conflict with the Law or the CICL.

Under the R.A. 9344 diversion program should be implemented for the CICLs instead of placing them in jail.

“You think na pag ibutang nimu siya sa jail mausob siya sa iyang buhat, that’s why we need to divert to the child’s needs. Everytime na mutabang ta sa bata gilantaw jud nato ang best interest sa bata not someone else.” Binghay stated. (FREEMAN)