HONTIVEROS WANTS JUVENILE JUSTICE LAW REVIEWED BUT MAINTAINS AGE 15 LIABILITY

Sen. Risa Hontiveros said the government should focus on strengthening intervention and rehabilitation programs for children in conflict with the law instead of lowering the minimum age of criminal responsibility.

She expressed support for reviewing the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 to improve rehabilitation systems while maintaining the current minimum age of 15.

Hontiveros stressed that diversion programs, including facilities like Bahay Pag-asa, should be improved and adequately funded to handle even serious juvenile offenses.

She also said she is open to further Senate discussions and studies on the issue, particularly to address gaps in protecting children from exploitation and online harm.

The remarks came amid renewed debate following the Tacloban school shooting, where victims’ families called for stricter accountability for juvenile offenders.

Source: PhilNews24 | July 3, 2026