Senator Risa Hontiveros announced that the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality will hold a hearing on July 1 to examine the recent school shooting in Tacloban City. The inquiry will address potential amendments to the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act and investigate whether online gaming platforms, such as Corebox, contribute to the radicalization of minors.
Legislative review of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act
Senator Hontiveros stated that while she views the current Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act as a “good law,” the recent violence in Tacloban may necessitate a formal review of its implementation and specific provisions. According to the senator, the upcoming July 1 Senate hearing will determine if legislative changes are required to strengthen protections for children. This follows concerns raised in previous Senate inquiries regarding how gaming applications might expose minors to violent content or radicalization.
Status of the ongoing investigation
Authorities have not yet filed charges against the owners of the firearms used in the school shooting. Senator Hontiveros confirmed that the Philippine National Police and other relevant agencies are still processing their investigations. Any potential legal action against firearm owners remains dependent on these final findings and the application of existing laws. The National Bureau of Investigation is also conducting a separate probe into the shooting incident.
Future policy implications
The Senate’s investigation could lead to a shift in how digital platforms are regulated in relation to child welfare. By focusing on the intersection of online gaming and juvenile behavior, the committee aims to identify if current safeguards are sufficient to prevent minors from accessing extremist or violent material. The outcome of the July 1 hearing may influence whether the government pursues stricter oversight of gaming applications or prioritizes different enforcement strategies for the existing juvenile justice framework.
Senator’s regional schedule
Senator Hontiveros made these statements while in Tabaco City, Albay, for the inauguration of the Adult Day Care Center Multi-Purpose Building alongside 1st District Representative Cielo Krisel Lagman. Her itinerary includes serving as the commencement speaker at the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture in Calabanga, Camarines Sur. Additionally, the senator is scheduled to hold a meeting with Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, though no specific agenda for that discussion has been released.
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