MANILA, Philippines — The Senate committee on justice and human rights has recommended raising the penalty for parents whose child 12 years old but below 18 commits serious crimes. Under the measure, parents of children who commit serious crimes can spend from six months to six years in prison. Sen. Richard Gordon, chairman of the committee, is expected to present the committee report to the Senate plenary on Monday. They could be released to their parents, foster parents or guardians only upon court order and after a comprehensive study conducted by the local DSWD officer. “No child under seven years of age shall be separated from the mother, unless the latter is unfit,” the report stressed.

Source: Philippine Star February 01, 2019 16:41 UTC