Bohol — The Tagbilaran City Council took a decisive step on July 3, 2026, by formally appealing to Bohol’s three congressional representatives to push for amendments to the national Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act. Through Resolution No. 200-26, the council is seeking to lower the age of criminal liability exemption from below 15 years old to below 10 years old. This move stems from growing concerns that criminal syndicates are allegedly exploiting current legal protections to recruit minors for illegal activities. The legislative push reflects the city’s proactive attempt to balance child protection with the need for public accountability in the face of evolving criminal threats.
Addressing Concerns Over Criminal Recruitment
The resolution highlights a worrying trend where minors, aware of their legal immunity, are allegedly being used by outside groups to perpetrate crimes. Local officials believe that the existing law, while intended to protect children, has become a loophole that prevents the justice system from addressing the actions of minors who possess a clear understanding of right and wrong. By advocating for this change, the council aims to create a more effective deterrent against the use of children in unlawful acts. The goal is not just punishment, but a shift toward a system that demands responsibility for one's actions regardless of age.
Restorative Justice Remains the Priority
Despite the push for lower criminal liability ages, the city council emphasizes that rehabilitation and restorative justice must remain the pillars of the juvenile system. The measure explicitly supports the continuation of intervention programs for youth in conflict with the law, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance to reform. Officials noted that the proposed amendment is meant to target those who have matured beyond their years in terms of criminal discernment, rather than penalizing vulnerable children. This approach seeks to provide a nuanced solution that protects the integrity of the law while safeguarding the future of the youth.
Coordinated Action Across Districts
By calling on all three of Bohol’s congressional representatives to support this amendment, the city is signaling a unified provincial stance on the issue. This appeal is particularly timely, as the national government has also been under pressure to review juvenile justice policies following incidents in other parts of the country. If successfully championed by Bohol’s representatives, the resolution could serve as a model for other provinces facing similar challenges with juvenile exploitation. The council intends to closely monitor the progress of these legislative requests to ensure they remain a priority in the coming months.
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