DSWD holds juvenile justice forum

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Social Welfare and Development-7 recently conducted a dialogue on issues surrounding the implementation of Republic Act 9344, known as the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act of 2006.

This after DSWD noted an increase in the number of reported children in conflict with the law (CICL) cases this year.

At least 30 judges, prosecutors, lawyers from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO), DSWD officials, policemen and social workers participated in the dialogue.

Also in attendance were representatives from Regional Rehabilitation Center for the Youth in Candabong, Argao, and the Operation Second Chance of Cebu City.

R.A. 9344 establishes a comprehensive juvenile justice welfare system and creates the juvenile justice welfare council.

The law covers different stages involving children at risk and children in conflict with the law from prevention to rehabilitation and integration.

DSWD assistant regional director Nemia Antipala said that there is still a need to revisit the law’s salient features, and discuss the latest Supreme Court resolution on the rule on juveniles. — Johanna T. Natavio/LPM  (FREEMAN NEWS)