On May 24, 2024, Hon. Judge Catherine Tagle-Salvador of RTC Branch 73, Malabon City, led a meaningful KTCAP orientation session designed to help children and their guardians better understand the court process and the justice system. Held at the Malabon City Hall of Justice, the session welcomed eight (8) children and nine (9) social workers, house parents, and guardians from Shechem Children’s Home.
Understanding the Courtroom
The session began with a child-friendly video presentation that introduced the children to the key figures in a courtroom. Using simple and accessible language, the video explained the roles of judges, prosecutors, defense lawyers, interpreters, and other court personnel, helping the children understand how each one contributes to the pursuit of justice.
Following the video, Judge Tagle-Salvador and her court personnel warmly engaged with the participants in an open forum. They answered questions about the legal process and gently addressed the children’s fears, offering encouragement and clarity. Both the children and accompanying adults expressed deep appreciation for being heard, guided, and reassured in such a supportive setting.
Learning by Doing: Role-Play Exercise
To help ease the children’s anxiety about testifying, the session included a hands-on courtroom role-play activity. Under the guidance of Judge Tagle-Salvador, a defense lawyer, and a court interpreter, each child had the opportunity to take the witness stand and answer sample, non-case-related questions in a supportive setting.
While some children were initially shy or hesitant, they gradually relaxed as they realized it was only a practice exercise. By the end, many were visibly more confident—some even smiled and laughed during their turns. This mock hearing provided a safe and empowering way for the children to become familiar with the courtroom, helping them feel more prepared and less afraid.
Tips for Testifying in Court
As part of the role-play, the children received helpful, easy-to-remember tips to guide them when it’s time to give real testimony:
• Speak clearly and answer out loud using “Yes, sir/ma’am” or “No, sir/ma’am” — nodding or shaking your head isn’t recorded in court.
• It’s okay to forget something or to remember more details later. Just be honest with your answers.
• If you feel nervous, try focusing on your social worker, the judge, or the prosecutor—not on the person you’re testifying about.
• Feeling scared is normal. But remember, the court is there to help and protect you.
Final Thoughts
More than just a legal orientation, the session became a source of courage and empowerment for the children. With the compassionate guidance of Judge Tagle-Salvador and her dedicated team, the participants walked away with greater confidence, clarity, and a stronger sense of readiness to face the courtroom.
Understanding what to expect—and having their fears addressed with empathy—can make a life-changing difference for young witnesses. With support and preparation, they are better equipped to speak their truth with honesty, dignity, and hope for justice.
About KTCAP
“The Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP) is a collaborative initiative designed to empower child and teen victims or witnesses of abuse and exploitation. Its goal is to prepare them for court appearances while easing the fear, anxiety, and uncertainty often associated with legal proceedings. Inspired by the King County Kids’ Court in Seattle and thoughtfully adapted for the Philippine context, KTCAP helps young participants understand the justice system, their role in it, and how to navigate courtroom processes with confidence and clarity.
The Justice Cecilia Muñoz Palma Foundation (JCMPF), in collaboration with the Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Sexual Abuse (CPTCSA) and Action Against Violence and Exploitation, conducts the Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP).
Every child has the right to be heard. KTCAP is helping make that possible—one empowered child at a time.”