the truth about Bukas-Taxi Boys.

A week ago, our unit was busy with the latest issues about minors doing illegeal acts in Guadalupe. They are the so-called "Bukas Taxi Kids" of Guadalupe. Right after the reports of the media, because of MMDA's success in capturing them boys through CCTV, DSWD was called to respond. Now, the boys are under the custody of Makati City Social Welfare Department's Mapagkalinga Drop-In Center.

These boys are victims themselves. Personally, I don't agree with the amendment of RA 9344 of the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act of 2006. To lower the age of discernment / to amend RA9344 is putting the blame on the child, and being blinded with the societal factors that lead him to do activities in conflict w/ law. The child, until 17 yrs old, needs guidance, and thus, should not be blamed solely for an illegal act. That is why we not need lower the amendment (of changing the age of discernment), but strengthening programs (curfew, educational assistance, youth volunteering opportunities, etc.) that would prevent children from doing criminal acts.

I think this is how the Honorable Secretary sees it as well.

Memory of that afternoon when we (me and Social Woker from Makati City Social Welfare Department)
interviewed Capratin of Brgy. Guadalupe Viejo regarding reports from concerned citizens of Bukas-Taxi Kids.
Thanks to Ms. Raquel Masecampo.

As my father said, the "Bukas-Taxi Kids" are but just a product of an exploitative society. To put the blame on them or to amend the RA9344 is like taking a shortcut in solving the problem which would not solve it, from its roots.