The Department of Justice (DOJ) has assisted the families of the victims of the recent Tacloban school shooting in seeking financial compensation, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring that victims and their loved ones receive the assistance available under the law as criminal proceedings continue.
During a press briefing, DOJ Undersecretary Ian Norman Dato provided updates on the Department’s response to the Tacloban school shooting, including efforts to assist the victims’ families.
“Our Regional Prosecution Office in Region VIII assisted the families of three deceased victims and three surviving victims in filing their claims for financial assistance before the Board of Claims,” Dato explained.
The Board of Claims is a body under the DOJ that provides financial assistance to qualified victims of violent crimes.
Dato also reported that criminal proceedings arising from the recent Tacloban school shooting are moving forward.
He said inquest proceedings had already been conducted before the Office of the City Prosecutor of Tacloban against one of the children in conflict with the law (CICL), identified only as “Rod,” who is facing three counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder. Following the inquest, the respondent will undergo the regular preliminary investigation process while remaining under the custody of the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth in Region VIII.
Meanwhile, another 14-year-old CICL, identified only as “Nash,” remains under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development at the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth in Region VIII, where he is undergoing intervention programs based on the assessment of DSWD social workers. A petition for involuntary commitment had earlier been filed with the assistance of the Public Attorney’s Office. The duration and nature of the intervention measures will ultimately depend on the assessment and orders of the appropriate court.
During the same briefing, Dato also reported that the DOJ is evaluating the CIDG’s original and supplemental referrals in connection with the deaths of the Ateneo student-athletes, including recommended charges for violations of the Anti-Hazing Act, homicide, and/or reckless imprudence resulting in homicide, as the evidence and applicable law may warrant. Furthermore, he said the DOJ would refrain from discussing the identities of the respondents or the evidence while the evaluation is ongoing.
The department continues to work with law enforcement agencies to pursue accountability in both cases while ensuring that victims and their families receive the support and legal remedies provided by law.
