Hontiveros eyes cellphone restrictions for kids under 15 yrs old

By Rhaydz Barcia

TABACO CITY--- Senator Risa Hontiveros is considering measures that would restrict cellphone use among children aged 15 and below following the deadly shooting incident at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte involving 14- and 15-year-old suspects that left four students dead.

In an interview during the inauguration of Albay’s first Senior Citizens Adult Day Center in Barangay San Vicente, Tabaco City on Wednesday, Hontiveros said she would review possible amendments to the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act.

When asked if she would support legislation similar to policies in other countries limiting cellphone use among minors, Hontiveros said the issue would be revisited in light of the Tacloban City school shooting.

She added that the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality would conduct a hearing on July 1 to investigate the incident.

Hontiveros said the committee would also examine the possible effects of online gaming applications, particularly “Corebox, and Roblox” and the exposure of minors to violent content on social media platforms.

Asked whether the Department of Education may have had security lapses related to the incident at San Jose National High School, Hontiveros declined to comment pending the outcome of the investigation.

She noted that previous Senate hearings had already raised concerns over the potential role of online gaming and social media platforms in the radicalization of minors.

While describing the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act as a “good law,” Hontiveros said there may be a need to assess whether its provisions are being properly implemented and whether certain measures should be strengthened following the incident.

Hontiveros also visited Albay before traveling to Naga City to meet with former vice president and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo. She was also scheduled to proceed to Calabanga, Camarines Sur to serve as commencement speaker during the graduation rites at the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA).

Senator Risa Hontiveros says she is considering measures that would restrict cellphone use among children aged 15 and below following the deadly school shooting incident at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte.