Abstract:
The major findings of the study on the three sampled populations (Makati City,
Quezon City, and the City of Manila) discovered notable similarities and differences among
them. Children in the Philippines can be arrested and detained like adults from the age of
nine years old. The most common offenses committed by children in the three sampled populations
are those against property such as theft and robbery, often considered as survival mechanism
for those children living in the streets caused by poverty and family breakdown. The family's
role in the growth and well-being of children is very important. However, in the case of poor
families where both parents are forced to work, the supervision of their children is often
ignored. The study also found that negative peer pressure and poverty are the major factors
that cause children to become delinquents. Likewise, Filipino children who come into
conflict with the law are often street youths who have low educational attainment. The study took note that majority of CICL in the three sampled populations were
first-time offenders. It recognized the effect on first time offenders who are most likely to
think of themselves as criminals and the thought of condemnation by their communities.
Thus, the stigma of being labeled as such and greater chance of re-offending. Also, if joined with other youth offenders, instead of rehabilitating the child it will only increase his/her
insecurity and anxiety once reintegrated to society.
