Juvenile Justice Welfare Council

Undersecretary Pria H. Taraji of DSWD and Chairperson of the JJWC, along with Attorney Tra Claire Oco, Executive Director of JJWC, introduce the council. They explain that the JJWC was organized by Republic Act 9344 to oversee the welfare of youth, specifically those involved in legal issues, and to connect them with necessary assistance from government agencies and other stakeholders.

The discussion clarifies that the term 'juvenile' primarily refers to individuals 18 years old and below. The council focuses on providing aid to children who have problems with the law, particularly those aged 15 and below who might have committed offenses due to circumstances rather than conscious intent. The emphasis is on restorative justice, not punitive measures.

The guests emphasize the principle of restorative justice for children, aiming for their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Various programs are implemented by agencies like DSWD and local government units to help these children develop into productive individuals and contribute positively to their families and communities. While JJWC focuses on children who commit offenses, other laws like RA 7610 protect child victims.

DSWD implements diversion programs, including facilities where children in conflict with the law receive support. These programs focus on behavioral and mental adjustments, guiding them towards positive conduct. Counseling and psychosocial interventions, provided by case and social workers, are fundamental to these programs, aiming to prevent future involvement with the law and fostering good behavior.