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Monday, October 10, 2005
Rehab center for minor offenders sought
By Jane Cadalig
TO PRESERVE the dignity of minors who go against the law, it is but proper that they be provided with an area where they could be nurtured and protected.
Members of the Benguet Federation of Senior Citizens Associations are seeking the establishment of a rehabilitation center in the province where juvenile delinquents, including victims, can be accommodated.
Instead of locking them up in jail, Benguet elders said the appropriate place for youth offenders are the rehabilitation centers.
They are asking the Provincial Government to spearhead the construction of the facility.
"Minor offenders, even if found guilty of a crime, (should) not be in jail until they reach adulthood. Rehabilitation is the best recommendation for youth who are involved in criminal activities and the victims as well," they said in a resolution passed during their stint as temporary legislators last Monday, in line with the province's senior citizens officials-for-a-day program.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) reported that there are no existing rehabilitation centers in Benguet or even in the Cordillera region.
PSWDO Officer Juana Bannawe however said minors who are found guilty of committing offenses are separated from inmates at the Benguet Provincial Jail.
Juvenile offenders, including women, are referred to the district jail, which is under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).
At present, a total of 18 inmates, nine minors and nine women are detained at the district jail.
(October 10, 2005 issue)
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