The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has opposed the move to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility in the Philippines. One reason why the DSWD considers the move anti-poor is that it may disproportionately affect marginalized children, who are more vulnerable to poverty and other social issues. Children who come from low-income families may be more likely to commit offenses due to their circumstances, such as lack of access to education, healthcare, and other basic needs. Lowering the age of criminal responsibility may also lead to increased rates of incarceration among poor children, who may not have access to legal representation and other forms of support. The DSWD believes that addressing the root causes of poverty and providing social services and interventions to help children in need is a more effective way to address juvenile delinquency and promote a just and equitable society.
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The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has opposed the move to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility in the Philippines. One reason why the DSWD considers the move anti-poor is that it may disproportionately affect marginalized children, who are more vulnerable to poverty and other social issues. Children who come from low-income families may be more likely to commit offenses due to their circumstances, such as lack of access to education, healthcare, and other basic needs. Lowering the age of criminal responsibility may also lead to increased rates of incarceration among poor children, who may not have access to legal representation and other forms of support. The DSWD believes that addressing the root causes of poverty and providing social services and interventions to help children in need is a more effective way to address juvenile delinquency and promote a just and equitable society.