Tacloban city: The Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council (JJWC), an agency connected to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), has confirmed that the two juveniles involved in the recent school shooting in Tacloban City are currently in the care of the Regional Rehabilitation Center for the Youth (RRCY), managed by DSWD's Field Office 8 in Eastern Visayas.
According to Philippines News Agency, JJWC Executive Director Tricia Clare Oco stated that the two children in conflict with the law (CICLs) are undergoing psychological assessments and other evaluations to understand the motives behind their actions. Oco highlighted that the minors are being kept separate from other children and from each other during the observation phase. She emphasized the importance of rehabilitation, as outlined in Republic Act 9344, to restore the juveniles' mindset to its state prior to committing the crime.
Oco also noted that, while the law focuses on rehabilitation, it does not absolve juvenile offenders of accountability. Within the facility, the CICLs are under strict supervision, akin to persons deprived of liberty. Authorities are considering filing civil or criminal charges against the parents of the two juveniles, depending on the outcomes of the police investigation.
Director Edwin Morata of the DSWD's Crisis Intervention Program explained that the facility imposes restrictions similar to those for persons deprived of liberty, including limited access to resources and regulated visiting hours. This structure aims to instill a sense of community policy adherence in the minors.
Under Secretary Rex Gatchalian's leadership, the DSWD has offered various support services to the affected students and families. DSWD's Field Office 8 administered immediate psychosocial aid, and in partnership with the Tacloban City government, the department will cover medical and burial costs for the families of the three casualties. Additionally, PHP20,000 in cash relief assistance was distributed to these families. The DSWD will also handle medical expenses for the 13 students hospitalized, providing guarantee letters through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program.
Oco reaffirmed JJWC's willingness to engage in reviewing the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, advocating for a comprehensive evaluation to effectively protect children's welfare. She indicated that focusing solely on the minimum age of criminal liability might overlook broader factors contributing to juvenile violence.
To reinforce the government's response strategy, the DSWD intends to introduce more training and skill-building programs for social workers dealing with similar cases. The department also plans to reassess the effectiveness of parent development sessions under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program to ensure parents are well-prepared to guide their children in contemporary society.
