By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said the two minors implicated in the Tacloban school shooting incident will remain within their communities while undergoing the appropriate legal and rehabilitation processes.
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian explained that the minors may be placed under the custody of the agency through a court order or voluntary surrender by their parents. Depending on the recommendation of local social welfare officers and the court, they may be housed at a Bahay Pag-asa facility or a Regional Rehabilitation Center for the Youth.
According to Gatchalian, the minors will undergo intensive intervention and diversion programs aimed at rehabilitation and behavioral reform.
He added that if the court determines that the minors acted with discernment, they may later be transferred from Bahay Pag-asa to a regional youth rehabilitation facility. Upon reaching the age of majority, and if social workers determine that there has been no significant behavioral change or remorse, the court may consider their transfer to the regular correctional system in accordance with existing laws.
Meanwhile, the DSWD has released ₱100,000 in financial assistance for students injured in the shooting incident. The agency will also provide burial assistance to the families of those who died.
The department continues to extend psychological first aid and psychosocial support services to affected students, teachers, and other individuals traumatized by the tragedy.
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