By Benjamin Pulta/PNA
MANILA — Chief Justice Lucas P. Bersamin reminded children in conflict with the law (CICL), who are serving rehabilitation in government-run shelters, that a new start awaits them after completing their time.
“(A)ng buhay ninyo dito sa Center ay hindi ninyo katapusan na. Dapat itong panahon na nandito kayo ay magamit ninyo upang mabigyan kayo ng panibagong simula (The time you spent here at the center, this does not mean that it’s the end of it. Instead, use this to start a new life),” Bersamin reminded the minors in a visit over the weekend to the Manila Youth Reception Action Center, a government-run shelter for minors in Manila.
A total of 185 children in conflict with the law (CICL), including 8 females, are now housed at the center.
Children in conflict with the law are minors, 15-18 years old, who have been accused or adjudged as having committed an offense. They are not detained in a regular jail, but are in the meantime housed in the center where they undergo rehabilitation programs.
He encouraged the children, stressing that while they may have had unpleasant past, highly-qualified social workers at the center will help them get back to the right path.
