BB Gandanghari has expressed support for amending the Juvenile Justice Law to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 10 years old. In a Facebook Live session with Senator Robin Padilla, Gandanghari stated that he believes in the purpose of the proposal.
Deterrence, Not Punishment
According to Gandanghari, the measure is not intended to punish or imprison children but to instill fear that prevents them from committing crimes. He emphasized that the goal is to create a deterrent so that young people become more cautious about their actions.
“So he is pushing this measure not to imprison all ten-year-olds. The real intention is for these children to have fear,” Gandanghari said.
Renewed Debate After Tacloban Shooting
The issue of lowering the age of criminal responsibility resurfaced following a shooting incident in Tacloban City that killed three students. Senator Robin Padilla is among those advocating for a review of the proposal.
However, Akbayan Party-list opposed the move, accusing proponents of using the tragedy to advance a measure that is not beneficial to children. In addition to amending the Juvenile Justice Law, Padilla also seeks to impose restrictions on minors' use of social media.
