DSWD hails SC for approving revised rules on children in conflict with the law

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Esperanza Cabral has lauded the Supreme Court (SC) under the stewardship of Chief Justice Reynato Puno for approving the Revised Rules on Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) based on the recommendations of the subcommittee on Rules of Procedures for Family Courts.

The revised rules became effective Dec. 1, 2009.

“The approval of the Revised Rules on Children in Conflict with the Law by the Supreme Court demonstrates their sincere desire to protect minors from being exposed to the stigma of criminality which may hamper their development, at the same time ensure that justice is served for the best interest of the child,” Cabral said.

According to the DSWD chief, the rules determine how cases of children in conflict with the law should be handled and treated by police, legal officers, social workers and other service providers, thereby preventing exploitation of children.

The revised rules also ensure that the justice system treats every child in conflict with the law in a manner that recognizes and upholds human dignity and worth, and instills in the child respect for the fundamental rights and freedom of others.

The rules also consider the developmental age of the child and the desirability of the child’s reintegration and assumption of a constructive role in society in accordance with the principles of balanced and restorative justice.

Under the rules, a child in conflict with the law is a child below 18 years old but not less than 15 years and one day old, who is alleged as, accused of, or adjudged as having committed an offense under Philippine laws.

A significant provision of the Rules states that if a child is found guilty of an offense charged, the court, instead of executing the judgment of conviction shall place the CICL under suspended sentence. In this case, the court shall proceed to determine disposition measures which can be any or combination of the following: care, guidance, and supervision orders; community service orders; drug and alcohol treatment; participation in group counseling; and commitment to the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth of the DSWD or other centers for children in conflict with the law authorized by the secretary of the DSWD.

A CICL who has been transferred to the youth rehabilitation center or youth detention home shall be provided with a healthy environment.

Cabral also disclosed that the DSWD manages the National Training School for Boys in Tanay and Regional Rehabilitation Centers for Youth. The social workers in these centers provide counseling, educational assistance, spiritual enhancement, livelihood and skills training which are all aimed at preparing the CICL for eventual reintegration to their families and communities. PNA