Perception of the Students, Parents, Police Officers, and Social Workers to the Implementation of the Revised Juvenile Delinquency Act

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Crime excuses no one. Recently, lowering the age of criminal liability has been surfacing in the news. In 2012, RA 10630 or the Revised Juvenile Delinquency Act was enacted to protect the right of every child as well as to exempt them from criminal liability. However, the law does not guarantee that children will be prevented from committing any crime nor will absolutely protect their rights at all times. This research sought to measure the perception of the respondents regarding the implementation of RA 10630.

METHODS

The quantitative-descriptive approach was utilized in this study. A survey questionnaire was used to collect data from four groups of respondents who are composed of 34 parents, 34 students, 25 police officers, and 7 social workers who were all purposively selected. The study was conducted in the municipality of Cainta, Rizal. The anonymity of respondents was kept to address ethical concerns.

RESULTS

In terms of enforcement, the four groups agree that LGUs were able to enforce the law properly by providing 24-hour child care institution; moreover, the guidelines prescribed in conducting rescue operations for children were observed without jeopardizing their rights with the average weighted mean of 4.44. In terms of punishment, an average weighted mean of 3.97 shows that all groups agree in the provisions cited in the law such as exemption from criminal liabilities of children under 15 years old and/or confinement of children in a childcare facility while their case is on trial. In terms of attainment of the aim of the law, all groups agree that the objectives were fully attained at 4.42 interpreted as agree. Respondents believed that seminar for development and joint parental guidance should be implemented as an intervention with the average weighted mean of 4.63 interpreted as strongly agree.

DISCUSSIONS

The results revealed that the four groups believe that RA 10630 is well enforced in the municipality. They believe in all provisions of law that aim to protect the child. However, some of the respondents slightly disagree with the provisions of the law in terms of punishment. Furthermore, based on the result in the part of the punishment provided under this law, some of the respondents have slight disagreement for it yield the lowest average mean. Future researchers are advised to conduct a qualitative study about the experiences of minors who have been in conflict with the law. Result of this study may help other municipalities to improve the implementation of this law.