MANILA, Philippines — Risa Hontiveros on Wednesday opposed proposals to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility but expressed support for reviewing and amending the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act to strengthen intervention and diversion programs for children in conflict with the law.
Hontiveros made the statement during a forum as lawmakers discussed possible changes to the juvenile justice law following the June 22 school shooting in Tacloban City.
The senator said she is open to evaluating amendments that would improve support and intervention programs for children in conflict with the law, including those accused of committing heinous crimes.
“We should always base any amendments on the principle of the best interest of the child,” Hontiveros said.
Robin Padilla earlier urged the Senate to amend the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act by lowering the minimum age of criminal responsibility to 10 years old following the Tacloban City shooting, which authorities said involved two minors and left three students dead and 20 others injured.
Hontiveros said she would actively participate if the proposal is taken up by the Senate Committee on Justice.
“If this issue will be discussed by the Senate Committee on Justice, the committee will probably hear the latest research and developments in child and youth psychology and juvenile justice,” she said.
She added that she would join the hearings to examine current scientific findings and policy approaches on juvenile justice.
Hontiveros said intervention and diversion programs for children who violate the law should remain a priority regardless of the age of criminal responsibility.
