Davao City: The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has taken custody of the female minors caught violating the curfew guidelines under the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ).
The three minors ages 15 and 16 years old were apprehended by Davao City Police Office (DCPO) on Sunday, May 3, 2020, in Toril and were immediately turned over to the CSWDO.
CSWDO head Ma. Luisa Bermudo said the minors could not be handed over to their parents because their case is still being investigated.
Under the ECQ, minors caught violating the guidelines such as curfew may face a six-year rehabilitation or may post bail of P3,000 each to the court.
However, CSWDO head, Ma. Luisa Bermudo said the minors may avail certain “paroles” so they will no longer face charges.
One of which is compliance with the CSWDO’s guidelines on addressing cases against minors. The CSWDO then reports to the court that the family has complied.
Bermudo added that the indigent Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) who committed violations under ECQ can also avail a provision in the Supreme Court Administrative Circular No. 38-2020 which states “Reduced bail and recognizance as modes of releasing indigent persons deprived of liberty during this public health emergency, pending resolution for their cases.”
This allows the indigent parents to file a petition under this circular and will no longer have to pay P3,000.
Bermudo emphasized that the role of the parents is crucial that the city is under a public health emergency.
“Dako kaayo’g kalambigitan gani ang mga ginikanan karon sa public health emergency. Daghan ta’g mga pasabot…mga preventive measures nga dapat buhaton sa pamilya (Parents have a major role now that we are under a public health emergency. We have many guidelines and preventive measures that must be followed by the family),” she said.
Bermudo added that they can show support to the government’s measures to slow the spread of coronavirus infection by looking after their children and staying at home. CIO
