DAVAO TODAY, Philippines – The City Social Services and Development Office (CSSDO) opposed to Senate President Vicente Sotto III ’s proposed amendment of the Republic Act 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 that is to lower the age of children’s criminal liability.
Marilyn Agonia of CSSDO in an interview told Davao Today that the CSSDO do not favor the amendment of the age limit of children to a criminal liability for their acts.
Agonia noted that early exposure to prison could affect child growth. She added that children being exposed to adults who committed crimes could be vulnerable to violence.
“Children need nurture from parents, meaning they should be guided to what is right and wrong. Not to be punished” said Agonia.
In Davao City, the age of children in conflict with the law ranges from age 15-16 who were mostly involved in crimes like robbery and stealing, Agonia said.
Earlier, Child rights advocate Davao Act 4 Children’s Rights (DOACT) also registered their opposition to Senator Sotto’s proposed amendment saying the proposal is “never be a solution to teach children to have a sense of accountability” at a young age.
The group also lambasted the improper implementation of the law which stated that children 15-years old and below are exempted from criminal liability while those aged 15 to 18 are exempted from criminal liability but will have to be subjected to an intervention program. (davaotoday.com)
