Gatchalian urges funds for Bahay Pag-Asa to avoid lowering age of criminal liability

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is urging the government to allocate funds for the expansion of Bahay Pag-Asa facilities, which cater to children in conflict with the law, to avoid a resurgence in calls to lower the minimum age of criminal liability.

Gatchalian highlighted the increasing demand for child rehabilitation services and expressed concern over the lack of a budget for Bahay Pag-Asa in the proposed 2026 national budget.

Republic Act No. 9344 mandates local government units to establish Bahay Pag-Asa, but compliance has been inconsistent.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development is requesting an additional P700 million for 2026 to fund the construction of specialized rehabilitation centers and at least five new Bahay Pag-Asa projects.