Mandate and Coordination
- DSWD is mandated to coordinate closely with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
- These agencies must adopt and implement measures allowed under existing laws, rules, and regulations to protect CICL.
- A principal measure is ensuring the separate detention of CICL from adult prisoners to uphold their welfare.
Support From Other Agencies
- DSWD is supported by DOJ, DILG, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC).
- Other government agencies may be called upon as necessary to effectively perform duties related to the protection of CICL.
- All agencies are directed to provide full cooperation.
Reporting Requirements
- An initial report on the situation and recommendations regarding CICL must be submitted by DSWD or the involved agencies to the Office of the President within two months from convening.
- Subsequently, quarterly consolidated reports must be submitted to monitor progress and issues affecting CICL.
Purpose and Context
- This order addresses concerns about CICL being detained with adult offenders, which adversely affects their rights and welfare.
- It empowers DSWD, with support from allied agencies, to take proactive measures safeguarding CICL under the framework of existing Philippine laws.
Effectivity
- The Memorandum Order became effective immediately upon issue on January 30, 2006.
Key Legal Concepts
- Child protection and welfare as paramount in cases involving minors in conflict with the law.
- Inter-agency cooperation and integrated approach to child welfare enforcement.
- Respect for human rights norms especially separation from adult detainees.
- Institutional accountability through mandatory reporting to the highest executive office.