The Regional Juvenile Justice and Welfare Committee (RJJWC) VI monitored youth care centers and detention facilities in Negros Occidental on September 20-21, 2023. The RJJWC VI monitoring team comprises members from the Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD), National Economic and Development Authority, and World Vision Development Foundation.

The team visited the Social Development Center in Bacolod City and the Balay Pag-asa Center in Sipalay City. These facilities cater to Children-In-Conflict with the Law (CICL) who are city residents waiting or have an ongoing trial for their committed criminal offense. Likewise, the team also visited the jail detention facilities in the cities of Kabankalan and Bago for on-spot monitoring of possible areas for the detention of CICLs due to the lack of facilities in the LGUs.

Some of the notable findings include the need for funding support by the LGUs in the establishment and operation of CICL centers, continuing technical assistance from the LGU and WCPD in crafting children protection policies, conduct of rehabilitation activities, and continuous coordination with the Public Attorney’s Office to fast-track case trials.

The monitoring visit is one activity of the RJJWC VI to improve the delivery of programs and services for the CICLs and to ensure the proper protection of their rights. (KMedianero/NEDA VI)