WATCH: Do minors really escape criminal charges?
MANILA, Philippines — A rare school shooting in Tacloban City involving two minors has reignited debate on the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, raising questions on how Philippine law holds children accountable for serious crimes.
Authorities said two suspects, aged 14 and 15, are being investigated in connection with the incident that left three people dead and around twenty others injured.
The case has renewed focus on the law, which creates a separate justice system for children in conflict with the law, centered on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Under the law, minors 15 and below are exempt from criminal liability but may undergo intervention. Those above 15 but below 18 may face proceedings if the court finds “discernment,” or understanding of right and wrong.
In this episode of Philstar.com’s Long Story Short, we break down what the law says and why the case has reopened national debate. — Video edited by Philstar.com / Anj Andaya
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