Manila: Social workers relayed to Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian that the 15-year-old offender involved in the tragic school shooting incident in Tacloban City, Leyte acted with discernment. Gatchalian explained that acting with discernment means awareness of right and wrong.
According to Philippines News Agency, Gatchalian stated in a media interview, "You planned it, you tried to hide it, you know the concept of right or wrong or you know the consequences." Despite this, the DSWD will still wait for the official results of the psychological evaluation conducted on both the 15-year-old and his companion, aged 14, who are both under the custody of the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth in Tacloban City.
Three fellow students aged 14 and 15 died during the shooting at San Jose National High School on June 22. Gatchalian noted that under the law, if a minor aged 15 plus one day to 18 years acts with discernment, they bear criminal liability and a case can be filed against them.
Social workers are actively conducting trust-building interventions to enable the minors to disclose vital information comfortably. "The two minors are strictly monitored and are far from free as they are kept in separate rooms isolated from other CICL (children in conflict with the law) inside the rehabilitation facility. They are also prohibited from receiving visits or having any connection with their parents at this time," Gatchalian said.
Gatchalian expressed the DSWD's willingness to participate in discussions on proposed amendments to Republic Act 9344, the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act, particularly regarding the minimum age for criminal responsibility. He remarked on societal changes since the law's enactment, highlighting the impact of social media and other evolving aspects.
Recognizing proposals to increase penalties for parental neglect, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao stated that family and community should be viewed holistically. Dumlao emphasized understanding the varied reasons behind children being in conflict with the law, such as poverty, lack of access to services, or a dysfunctional family.
Dumlao also stressed the importance of assessing the negative impacts of certain online platforms on minors. She suggested carefully studying and regulating what minors can access online, acknowledging both the beneficial and harmful aspects of internet use.
