EBUÑA, Ma. Samantha Louise L. 1C s

THESIS PROPOSAL

I. BAR SUBJECT Criminal Law

II. TOPIC: Decreasing Juvenile Delinquency in the Philippines

III. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM:

Main Problem

Does the law enacted by the Legislature (R.A 9344) address the needs of a child at risk and in conflict with the law who are considered juvenile delinquents?

Sub-Problems

1. How does Criminal Law define “Juvenile Deliquents”?2. What are the causes of why children have the tendency to commit a crime? 3. What are possible methods in order to conduct juvenile prevention? 4. What are the problems encountered upon passing Republic Act 9344?

IV. OBJECTIVES AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY:

This study aims to distinguish how the Revised Penal Code treats children below the age of 18 found to be guilty of committing a crime as to that of an offender 18 years or above of age. It also aims to determine the reasons that would influence such delinquent in doing such act and if any actions has been taken by the government in decreasing their numbers. It is evident in this statement that the occurrence of juvenile delinquency in our country is mainly caused by social problems, specifically, poverty. Fathers and mothers of poor families are forced to be frequently away from their home for long periods of time in order to earn a livelihood. Housing conditions are often such as to the deprive the members of the family to live comfortably in their dwellings and are so restricted that children, out of their necessity, spend most of their time in the streets where they are able to gain knowledge of the many kinds of wrongdoings such as theft and robbery.

As such, children living in the streets become vulnerable to prostitution, drug addiction and the huge temptation of committing a crime. Most street children have become juvenile delinquents either out of necessity (in order to provide not only for their needs, but also for their family’s needs as well) or through force (because of syndicates).

V. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Criminal Law provides for a “classical framework” wherein a person given the freedom to do whatever he desires but in accordance with the laws, decides to commit an offense should be proportionately punished once he decides to. However as it is very unlikely for a children bearing tendency in the age, to have such mental capacity to do a crime which he is not even aware of such consequence. Therefore this research shall contain information gathered relating to the topic and the practical applications of laws enforced by the government in dealing with this situation.