Family Court Branch 17 Antipolo City welcomes Voice of the Free for an Inspiring KTCAP Session
On April 16, 2024, the Antipolo City Hall of Justice became more than just a building of laws—it became a place of learning, healing, and courage. Hon. Anna Zita Abuda-Caballegan of Family Court Branch 17 Antipolo City personally welcomed ten (10) child participants and five (5) social workers from Voice of the Free (VOF) to a special session of the Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP).
A Rare Glimpse into the Heart of Justice
Through the generosity of Judge Abuda-Caballegan, the children were given a unique opportunity to observe a real courtroom hearing. This firsthand experience helped them understand courtroom dynamics, easing the fear and anxiety often associated with legal proceedings.
“When children understand what happens in court, their confidence grows and fear fades,” – Judge Abuda-Caballegan.
A Child-Sensitive Courtroom
Judge Abuda-Caballegan also introduced a compassionate feature of her courtroom: unlike traditional set-ups where the witness stand is beside the judge, hers is positioned in the middle —facing only the judge. This child-sensitive layout protects the child’s emotional safety, ensuring that their testimony is heard with dignity and without intimidation.
Children Speak Out
The effect of the visit was both immediate and heartfelt. Here are some of the children’s reflections:
“Sobrang saya ko kasi nakilala ko na kung sino-sino ang mga tao sa loob ng korte. Namangha ako dahil ang korte pala ay isang napakalaking gusali. Parang gusto ko na ring magtrabaho sa loob ng court.” – Female, 16 yrs old
“I’m so happy because I now know who the people inside the court are. I was amazed at how big the courthouse is. I think I want to work in court someday too.”
“Masaya po ako kasi alam ko na kung ano ang gagawin ko at kung ano ang pwede kong gawin. Hindi na po ako nakakaramdam ng kaba at takot tuwing pupunta ako sa korte dahil ang kailangan ko lang gawin ay magsabi ng totoo.” – Female, 16 yrs old
“I’m happy because I now know what to do and what I’m allowed to do. I no longer feel nervous or afraid because I just need to tell the truth.”
“Masaya po ako kasi ang dami kong natutunan, at alam ko na kung ano ang gagawin ko. Nakabisita na rin po ako sa korte, kaya hindi na ako nakakaramdam ng kaba at takot dahil sa KTCAP.” – Female, 13 yrs old
“I’ve learned a lot and now I know what to do. Visiting the court has removed my fear thanks to KTCAP.”
“Hindi na ako matatakot kapag nakita ko ang akusado ko dahil alam kong mas marami akong kakampi sa loob ng korte. Mas handa na ako kapag sinalang na ako sa witness stand. Yun lang po, maraming salamat.” – Female, 15 yrs old
“I won’t be afraid when I see my accused because I know I have allies inside the court. I now understand what happens in court, so I’m more prepared to testify. Thank you.”
A Social Worker’s Insight
Hemabe P. Abao, a social worker from Voice of the Free, praised the program’s transformative impact:
KTCAP is an invaluable resource for our survivors. It builds their confidence, reduces fear, and empowers them to speak their truth. It helps children regain emotional balance while preparing them to face legal challenges with courage.
Walking Into Court with Courage
Through the collaboration of the Justice Cecilia Muñoz Palma Foundation, the judiciary, and organizations like Voice of the Free, the Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP) continues to serve as a powerful tool for healing and empowerment. Thanks to initiatives like KTCAP, children no longer walk into courtrooms scared or alone—they walk in with courage, knowledge, and the belief that justice is on their side.
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.”