The Justice Cecilia Muñoz Palma Foundation (JCMPF) successfully conducted the Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP) in Cebu Province from May 13 to 15, 2026, bringing psycho-legal education and courtroom orientation to child victims and witnesses, together with their parents, guardians, and social workers.
The three-day program was made possible through the generous financial support of Ms. Mary Ann Aboitiz, whose donation covered airfare, accommodation, local transportation, meals, token and snacks for the kids, and reproduction learning materials, enabling the Foundation to extend this important initiative to children in Cebu.
Prior to the activity, JCMPF worked closely with Family Courts, child-caring institutions, social welfare agencies, and child protection organizations to ensure the successful implementation of the program. This collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to making the justice system more child-friendly and responsive to the needs of young victims and witnesses.
KTCAP is a child-centered psycho-legal education program designed to help children understand the court process, become familiar with courtroom procedures and personnel, reduce fear and anxiety associated with testifying, and build confidence in fulfilling their role as witnesses. The program also equips parents, guardians, and social workers with practical knowledge to better support children throughout legal proceedings.
The Cebu implementation was conducted in partnership with Family Court Branch 7, Talisay City, presided over by Hon. Romeo A. Reyes, Jr.; Family Court Branch 5, Lapu-Lapu City, under Hon. Jose Alfonso Gomos; and RTC Branch 55, Mandaue City, presided over by Hon. Ferdinand T. Rafanan.
Children from Hope Mountain Foundation, Home Care Center for Children, Happy Horizons Children’s Ranch, World Hope Cebu, My Refuge House Ministry, and Cebu Hope Center actively participated in the program.
Day 1 – May 13 – Judge Reyes – Talisay, Cebu Home Care Center and Hope Mountain Foundation
Throughout the sessions, participants learned about the roles of judges, prosecutors, defense lawyers, clerks of court, interpreters, and other court personnel through interactive discussions, educational videos, and child-friendly learning activities. Courtroom visits gave the children the opportunity to experience an actual courtroom environment, helping transform what is often an unfamiliar and intimidating place into one that feels more understandable and less frightening.
IDay 2 – May 14 – Judge Gomos – Lapu-Lapu City Happy Horizon, My Refuge, World Hope Cebu
A highlight of the program was the active involvement of the judges and court personnel, who warmly welcomed the participants, explained courtroom procedures in language children could understand, and answered their questions. Their presence helped reassure the children that the justice system can also be compassionate, respectful, and responsive to their needs.
Meanwhile, parents, guardians, and social workers received guidance on how they can provide emotional support before, during, and after legal proceedings.
Day 3 – May 15 – Judge Rafanan – Mandaue City, Cebu Hope Center
The Cebu KTCAP reached 94 participants, composed of 67 children, 9 parents and guardians, and 18 social workers representing six child-caring institutions across the province.
By the end of the three-day activity, many participants demonstrated a better understanding of courtroom procedures and expressed greater confidence about appearing in court if needed. Beyond educating children, the program further strengthened partnerships among the judiciary, social welfare agencies, residential care facilities, and child protection organizations in advancing trauma-informed and child-sensitive justice.
The Justice Cecilia Muñoz Palma Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Romeo A. Reyes, Jr., Hon. Jose Alfonso Gomos, Hon. Ferdinand T. Rafanan, their dedicated court personnel, partner agencies, social workers, and shelter administrators for their invaluable support and warm hospitality.
The Foundation likewise expresses its deepest appreciation to Ms. Mary Ann Aboitiz, whose generosity made the Cebu implementation of KTCAP possible. Through her support, dozens of child victims and witnesses gained knowledge, confidence, and hope as they prepare to navigate the justice system with greater understanding.
Together, we continue to work towards a justice system where every child is heard, protected, and empowered.
ABOUT KTCAP
The Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP) is a flagship initiative of the Justice Cecilia Muñoz Palma Foundation (JCMPF), implemented in partnership with Family Courts, prosecutors, social workers, and child protection advocates nationwide. The program prepares child victims and witnesses for court by helping them understand the justice process, reducing fear and anxiety, and empowering them to participate with confidence while promoting a more child-friendly justice system.