New Juvenile Justice Law in the Philippines

With the signing of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act 2006 by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the Philippines introduced a new . Among the many provisions seeking to protect children in conflict with the law, the legislation calls for restorative justice to be an integral part of the new system Juvenile Justice system. In outlining the principles of Juvenile Justice, the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act 2006 calls for restorative justice to be incorporated into all “laws, policies and programmes applicable to children in conflict with the law.” It defines restorative justice as a principle which requires a process of resolving conflicts with the maximum involvement of the victim, the offender and the community. It seeks to obtain reparation for the victim; reconciliation of the offender, the offended and the community; and reassurance to the offender that he/she can be reintegrated into society. It also enhances public safety by activating the offender, the victim and the community in prevention strategies. (http://www.restorativejustice.org)

But as what we can see in our society right now, a lot of minors are involved in different crimes like drugs, killings, and etc. Are this children appropriate to be given privilege to escape imprisonment? because obviously, they are abusing the law that was given to protect them and their rights as minors. 

If you will ask me if I am in favor of this law, I would refuse. This is because I could not deny the fact that the children of this generation is much aggressive and violent because of their exposure to violence on television, movies etc. 

This should be given attention by our new government. They should know what is the right action to control this abusive act by minors who are commiting major crimes. It is really sad to see that the law that is proposed to save and help protect children was abuse and is use to commit crimes that are very unexpected for children to do.