THE endless discussions on what should be considered as the age limit for the youth to be apprehended for committing a crime had gone from nine, 12 to 15.
There were arguments on making the parents responsible for the crimes their children commit. They are the filial connection with their children to rear them properly.
I remember a subject in the elementary level named- 'Good manners and right conduct.' The parents argued that they cannot be held responsible for what their children do outside their home. Police officers should attend to this.
These parents are wrong. They are duty bound as parents to advice and discipline their children, strict but tempered with love. There will be no problem children if there are no problem parents. Be good examples for your children in the manner you rear them at home.
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (Pdea) urged local government units to put up a Bahay Pag-Asa or a rehabilitation center to cater to children in conflict with the law.
Pdea deputy director Carreon, during a conference, launched the movement of “Oplan Sagip Batang Lansagan” to apprehend children sniffing solvent to drown their difficulties in life. Usually, they are suspects of committing petty crimes. Director Carreon would like to reform them by rehabilitating them inside a facility where they will be taken care of by trained personnel who are experts in the field of reorienting the youth towards a better way of life free from committing crimes as the main goal. When cured they become trusted citizens in any community where they reside.
Carreon said the program will start with pilot areas in Metro Manila. They will partner with private companies through their corporate social responsibilities. All graduates of the rehabilitation centers will be given livelihood and skills training so they can start a new life. One social problem will be solved and that speaks a lot.
One program worth mentioning, too, is the permit to undertake random drug test for students allowed by Commission on Higher Education in private and public schools.
The results will be confidential and will not be used to discriminate the students. Those found positive will be advised to enter rehabilitation centers until they are cured from the vice.