MANILA, Philippines — Among former Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go’s top priorities should he be elected to the Senate would be to look into the possibility of amending the “Pangilinan Law” or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006.
Critics have blamed the legislation for the rise in youth offenders in the country. The law exempts those 15 years old and below from any criminal liability, even for heinous crimes such as rape and murder.
“Drug syndicates often use children so there is a need to review the law,” Go said during a recent radio interview.
He said President Duterte has been a very vocal critic of this law, calling it “idiotic” in numerous public pronouncements.
Go, who has been at the side of Duterte for more than 20 years, has vowed to support the President’s legislative agenda and continue his programs beyond 2022.
He is expected to be among the key legislators that Duterte will rely on in the Senate should he win a seat.