Japan to aid Pinoy kids in conflict with the law

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) have signed an agreement that would assist Filipino children in conflict with the law as well as those at risk.

In a statement released Tuesday, the Japanese Embassy in Manila said the agreement signed by JICA and DSWD on January 15 establishes a community-based juvenile intervention facilitator system for children in conflict with the law and children at risk under the ‘’Gabay Project.’’

In his speech, JICA chief representative Sakamoto Takema said the Technical Cooperation for Grassroot Project aims to support children with the concept of ‘’No-One-Left-Behind’’ or inclusive society.

‘’Life’s circumstances may lead children’s paths astray, but, in such cases, it should be our shared responsibility to support their rehabilitation, empowerment, and reintegration to the society,’’ Takema said.

The collaboration aims to help local government units improve their juvenile programs for vulnerable children, particularly in delivering effective diversion programs in Malabon, Navotas, and Olongapo cities.

“Patterned on Japan’s volunteer probation officer (HOGOSHI) system, this initiative demonstrates our willingness to assist the Philippines in rehabilitating and protecting its children,” said Aoki Fumiko, first secretary of the Japan Embassy.

“Japan and the Philippines are partners in its pursuits and aspirations. Protecting our children is not just a duty but our most noble of these aspirations,” she added.

The Juvenile Justice and Welfare, DSWD’s attached agency, will lead the project.
—Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News