SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has secured funding for the construction of five additional regional Bahay Pag-Asa (BPA) facilities in 2026, underscoring the urgent need to strengthen government capacity in rehabilitating children in conflict with the law (CICL).

Gatchalian pushed for the allocation of ₱200 million to build the new BPA centers, stressing that expanding rehabilitation infrastructure is essential to supporting young offenders and helping them reintegrate into society.

“The BPA facilities are a critical lifeline for young individuals to reform and rejoin society productively. Tulad ng ginawa namin sa Valenzuela, nakita natin kung paano natulungan ng Bahay Pag-Asa ang maraming kabataan na naligaw ng landas ngunit nais makapagtapos ng pag-aaral at makapagsimula ng bagong buhay,” Gatchalian said.

As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, Gatchalian highlighted the importance of prioritizing programs that address the needs of vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, especially Filipino youth.

According to the Department of Social Welfare and Development, there are currently 118 Bahay Pag-Asa facilities across the country, offering temporary shelter, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs for CICLs. However, many of these centers struggle with limited capacity and resources—issues the senator aims to address through increased funding and expanded facilities.

Gatchalian said the new BPAs will help ensure that more young offenders receive proper guidance, education, and psychosocial support, giving them a better chance to rebuild their lives and stay away from crime.

The senator reiterated that investing in the rehabilitation of CICLs is an investment in safer communities and a more inclusive future for Filipino youth.