The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has recorded 22 children in conflict with the law (CICL) from January to May 2026, with police officials describing the figures as a continuing concern despite ongoing intervention programs implemented by the city government and partner agencies.
Speaking during the Davao Peace and Security Corps media briefing on Wednesday, DCPO spokesperson Major Ma. Theresita Gaspan said the city recorded 93 CICL cases in 2024 and 82 cases in 2025. For the first five months of 2026, authorities have already documented 22 cases.
“I have data on our children in conflict with the law for Davao City alone. For calendar year 2024, we recorded 93 cases, and in 2025, we recorded 82. This 2026, from January to May, we have 22 CICL cases,” Gaspan said.
Based on DCPO data, 81 of the 93 cases recorded in 2024 were classified as solved, while 12 were cleared. In 2025, 74 cases were solved and eight were cleared. No cases were listed as under investigation in either year.
Gaspan said the figures remain alarming even though the number declined by 11 cases from 2024 to 2025.
“Medyo alarming siya. Although bumaba siya ng 11 noong 2025, mayroon naman tayong mga intervention program na ginagawa ang city government,” she said.
She cited several initiatives aimed at preventing juvenile delinquency, including a localized intervention mechanism under a city ordinance, rescue operations for minors at risk, and rehabilitation services for young offenders.
According to Gaspan, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) operates a Quick Response Team that rescues children found roaming the streets without parental supervision.
“They are rescued so they will not commit crimes on the streets or be used as instruments in the commission of crimes,” she explained.
Gaspan also warned that some criminal elements exploit minors because they are often exempt from criminal liability.
“Considering that they cannot be charged, some criminals want to use them,” she said.
For minors who have already committed offenses, Gaspan said the city provides rehabilitation and intervention through Bahay Pag-asa, a facility that houses children in conflict with the law.
She added that barangays are also implementing community-based interventions through their respective Barangay Councils for the Protection of Children.
On the part of law enforcement, Gaspan said the Philippine National Police continues to strengthen preventive measures, including the strict implementation of local ordinances and curfew regulations for minors.
Gaspan said the DCPO will continue coordinating with local government agencies, schools, barangays, and families to address the factors contributing to juvenile offenses and to ensure that at-risk children receive proper guidance and intervention before becoming involved in criminal activities.
