Atty. Venamay Celeste, head of the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) in Cagayan de Oro, explained that they have a comprehensive approach for Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) through preventive, rehabilitative, and reintegration measures.
Their office is strengthening partnerships with barangays to create Comprehensive Barangay Juvenile Intervention Programs to prevent crime.
Celeste said rehabilitation depends on court decisions: minors aged 15 to under 18 with criminal liability may undergo diversion programs or be placed in facilities depending on the severity of the crime.
She proudly noted that Cagayan de Oro already has separate Bahay Pag-asa facilities for male and female children.
