QUEZON CITY (PIA) — Today, May 20, marks the 18th anniversary of the enactment of Republic Act 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (JJWA).
Under the theme, “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, BAWAT BATA MAY PAG-ASA; Sa Juvenile Justice Law, Bawat Bata may Pagkakataong Magbago!“ highlights the hope for a better future for every child, particularly those children at risk (CAR) and those children in conflict with the law (CICL).
This event honors the JJWA significant accomplishments over the last 18 years and the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council’s (JJWC) dedication to its full implementation.
The JJWA advocates for a restorative and rehabilitative strategy rather than punitive measures, protecting children’s rights while working to reintegrate them into society as responsible and productive citizens.
DSWD Undersecretary Emmeline Aglipay-Villar acknowledged the collaborative efforts of government agencies and stakeholders in successfully implementing the JJWA. She stated, “We have come a long way since the enactment of the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act in 2006. Establishing a Juvenile Justice and Welfare System in the country was a significant challenge, as it required shifting from a deeply ingrained punitive culture in treating children in conflict with the law.”
“With the commitment of all actors from the legislative, executive, and judiciary branches, duty bearers at various governance levels, non-government organizations, and development partners, we have made substantial and necessary changes. However, we still have much to do in light of the continuing and evolving challenges affecting our children,” she added.
She also outlined the programs planned for the next three to five years, focusing on significant projects aimed at addressing modern challenges for children. One such initiative is the Deradicalization Program for children involved in terrorism and violent extremism. This program focuses on creating specialized modules for psychosocial interventions. These modules attempt to meet the psychological, social, and emotional requirements of afflicted children, assisting them in disengaging from extremist ideology and reintegrating into society as productive and positive individuals.
Another significant initiative is the creation of two Agricultural Camps for Children. This innovative program offers a rehabilitative environment for children convicted of criminal offenses, providing an alternative to conventional correctional institutions. At the Agricultural Camp, children serve their sentences while engaging in various agricultural tasks. This approach emphasizes rehabilitation and skill development, aiming to instill a sense of responsibility, discipline, and self-reliance in the participants. (GLDG/PIA-NCR)
