SENATOR Robinhood Padilla has raised concerns over the limits of existing laws that exempt minors from criminal liability, following reports of underage individuals allegedly attempting to rob jeepney passengers in Las Piñas City.

During a recent discussion, Padilla presented a video showing a group of minors reportedly targeting commuters aboard a jeepney, saying the incident underscores the need to reassess how the law balances child protection with accountability for unlawful acts.

“It is time to discuss the limits of legal protection shielding our youth if they themselves are blatantly violating our laws and causing fear and anxiety in the lives of others,” Padilla said.

He cited Republic Act No. 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, which sets the minimum age of criminal responsibility at 15 years old.

While reaffirming the importance of safeguarding children’s rights, Padilla stressed that protections must be matched with efforts to ensure minors understand the consequences of unlawful behavior.

“We need to balance care and responsibility. We should strengthen youth programs, education, guidance, opportunities, but at the same time it should be clear that every action has consequences,” he added.

The senator also called for stronger intervention and rehabilitation programs to prevent minors from engaging in criminal activities, while maintaining protections for children in conflict with the law.

The issue of juvenile accountability remains a recurring debate in Congress, with lawmakers and advocacy groups continuing to weigh how best to address youth involvement in crime without undermining child welfare protections.