Robin Padilla’s Bill to Lower Criminal Liability to Ages 10 to 17 Backed by Eric Nicolas
ERIC NICOLAS – The comedian and TV host expressed his support for Senator Robin Padilla’s proposed bill, which seeks to lower the age of criminal liability to minors aged 10 to 17 years old. Nicolas agreed with actress and Quezon City Councilor Aiko Melendez, who earlier voiced her approval of Padilla’s proposal.
Senator Padilla’s proposed amendment targets Republic Act No. 9344, also known as the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006. This bill aims to remove the exemption from criminal liability for minors aged 10 to 17 if they are proven guilty of committing serious crimes such as murder or rape.
Aiko Melendez shared a news report about Padilla’s bill on her verified Facebook page, saying that it is a correct and necessary law. She explained that anyone who breaks the law—whether it be murder or rape—should face punishment according to the severity of the crime, regardless of age. She added that no one should be above the law.
Eric Nicolas fully agreed with Aiko. He commented that children as young as ten can already distinguish between right and wrong. He believes this law can serve as a lesson to those planning to commit crimes, as well as to negligent parents. He said that young offenders should be held accountable so that well-behaved children will not be negatively affected. He also emphasized that people should stop pretending to be overly kind when discipline is necessary. Nicolas added that this is now a chance for the youth—whom Jose Rizal once called the hope of the nation—to grow up properly.
In response, Aiko simply said she agreed. Eric also publicly thanked Senator Padilla, saying it was about time such a law was proposed. The current Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act was co-sponsored by returning Senator Kiko Pangilinan.