The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Tuesday renewed its call to prioritize implementing programs and interventions for children in conflict with the law (CICLs) as the nation celebrates the 13th Juvenile Justice and Welfare Consciousness Week (JJWeek) from Nov. 24 to 30.

“As we observe the JJWeek celebration, the DSWD calls for the comprehensive and effective implementation of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (JJWA), as amended,” DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said in a statement on Tuesday.

He emphasized that protecting the rights and welfare of CICLs is everyone’s “collective responsibility.”

“As a society, it is crucial that we recognize that children, regardless of their circumstances or transgression, deserve understanding, protection, and opportunities for positive transformation. By fully implementing the JJWA through restorative justice, we can help CICLs to have a second chance to lead meaningful lives and positively contribute toward nation-building,” he said.

This year’s theme, “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Bata May Pag-Asa: Ligtas na Lipunan para sa Bagong Henerasyon,” emphasizes the importance of providing hope to CICL and children at risk (CAR), encouraging them to dream, thrive, and make positive changes.

The JJWeek also acts as a platform to engage duty-bearers and stakeholders in protecting children’s rights and dignity by addressing the needs of vulnerable youth through a comprehensive approach involving the entire nation and society.

The Juvenile Justice and Welfare, an attached agency of the DSWD, leads the week-long celebration for the JJWeek.

This annual event occurs during the fourth week of November in recognition of National Children’s Month (NCM).

For information about the activities during JJWeek, the public may visit the JJWC Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/JJWCOfficial/ or the DSWD Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/dswdserves/. (PNA)