Juvenile Justice Law: Myths Busted, Facts Revealed

You are mistaken if you think minors tagged in crimes are not liable under the law. In a new episode of 'Order in the Court,' Rappler's Jairo Bolledo delves into the truth about the juvenile justice law and debunks common myths surrounding it.

Jairo Bolledo, an experienced lawyer, explains that while the law emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment, minors who commit serious crimes can still face legal consequences. He cites the recent Tacloban shooting incident, where minors were involved in a violent crime.

The law was enacted in 2013 to address the rising number of minors in detention facilities. According to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the country's jail population has been decreasing since the law's implementation. In 2020, there were 1,435 minors in government-run rehabilitation centers compared to 3,000 minors in 2012. Bolledo highlights that the law has shifted the focus from punitive measures to rehabilitation, with the aim of reintegrating minors into society.

However, critics argue that the law has loopholes that allow minors to evade responsibility. They point out that the law's focus on rehabilitation has led to a lack of accountability among minors who commit crimes. Bolledo acknowledges these concerns but stresses that the law is not a license for minors to commit crimes without consequences.

Bolledo explains that minors who commit serious crimes can still face court cases and intervention measures, such as counseling and community service. However, he notes that the court's discretion plays a significant role in determining the appropriate measure.

The law has also led to increased cooperation between government agencies and civil society organizations to provide support to minors who commit crimes. According to Bolledo, the law has fostered a more holistic approach to addressing juvenile delinquency, recognizing the need for a combination of punishment, rehabilitation, and social support.

The juvenile justice law is a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach. While it has its limitations, it has shown promise in addressing juvenile delinquency and promoting rehabilitation.

It's worth noting that the law's implementation has been a collaborative effort between government agencies and civil society organizations. This cooperation has led to increased support for minors who commit crimes, recognizing that rehabilitation is an integral part of the justice system.

The law's emphasis on rehabilitation over punishment has led to a decrease in the country's jail population, particularly among minors. However, critics argue that the law has loopholes that allow minors to evade responsibility. Bolledo acknowledges these concerns but stresses that the law is not a license for minors to commit crimes without consequences.