For many children who have experienced abuse or are preparing to testify in court, the courtroom can seem intimidating and unfamiliar. Through the Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP), however, that fear is gradually replaced with understanding, confidence, and hope.
On May 30, 2025, the Justice Cecilia Muñoz Palma Foundation (JCMPF), in partnership with the Regional Trial Court Branch 136 of Makati City, conducted another successful KTCAP session under the gracious leadership of Hon. Judge Rico Sebastian Dizon Liwanag. Four children and their six adult companions from the Mandaluyong City Social Welfare and Development Department – Bahay Tuluyan participated in the court orientation, where they were warmly welcomed by Judge Liwanag, Branch Clerk of Court Jeremy Domael, Senior Assistant City Prosecutor Joan Bolina-Santillan, and the court personnel.
From the moment the children entered the courtroom, the atmosphere was transformed into a safe and child-friendly learning environment. Court personnel introduced themselves and explained their respective roles, helping the children understand that every person inside the courtroom plays an important part in ensuring that justice is served fairly and compassionately.
One of the session’s most meaningful lessons focused on helping children overcome their fear of the courtroom. The prosecutors and court staff reassured the participants that they would always be protected while inside the court. They explained that only authorized persons are allowed inside the courtroom and that children may immediately tell the court interpreter, court aide, prosecutor, or judge whenever they feel frightened or uncomfortable. Measures are readily available to protect child witnesses, including minimizing contact with the accused whenever necessary.
Judge Liwanag also explained that the judge’s black robe is not something to fear. Rather, it symbolizes fairness, dignity, and the court’s responsibility to protect everyone’s rights. Using child-friendly language and relatable examples, he encouraged the children to see the courtroom not as a place of punishment but as a place where truth is heard and justice is pursued.
The children were introduced to several important legal concepts, including protection orders, bail, Family Courts, and the three major stages of criminal proceedings—arraignment and pre-trial, trial, and the court’s decision. Judge Liwanag carefully explained these processes in a manner that children could easily understand, emphasizing that court proceedings are guided by rules designed to ensure fairness for everyone.
The session also highlighted the special procedures available for child witnesses. Prosecutors explained how anatomically correct dolls are used to help children communicate difficult experiences when words may be too painful or confusing. This demonstration helped both the children and their caregivers appreciate the justice system’s child-sensitive approach in handling cases involving minors.
An engaging open forum followed, during which social workers and parents raised practical questions concerning child protection cases. Topics included the increasing evidentiary requirements during preliminary investigation, criminal liability of children under fifteen years old, rehabilitation programs for children in conflict with the law, and the admissibility of testimony from previous victims. Judge Liwanag and the prosecutors provided clear explanations that enhanced the participants’ understanding of current legal procedures while emphasizing the importance of strong evidence, proper documentation, and rehabilitation where appropriate.
The participants expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to experience the courtroom in a supportive environment.
According to Ms. Shery H. Alim, RSW, Center Head of Mandaluyong SWDD–Bahay Tuluyan, every KTCAP session provides new learning experiences, describing the court personnel as accommodating and genuinely child-friendly. Center Psychologist Ms. Ma. Richelle S. Casal shared that the program helps abused children feel safer and more prepared should they need to testify in court.
The children’s own reflections revealed the lasting impact of the experience. Several shared that they were no longer afraid of the judge or the courtroom. Others said they learned to be brave, to remain hopeful, and to understand that the people inside the courtroom are there to help protect them.
The visit demonstrated how knowledge can replace fear. By opening courtroom doors to children before they are required to testify, the Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program empowers young participants with the confidence, understanding, and emotional preparedness they need to navigate the justice system.
The Justice Cecilia Muñoz Palma Foundation remains grateful to Hon. Judge Rico Sebastian Dizon Liwanag, the Regional Trial Court Branch 136 of Makati City, the Office of the City Prosecutor, and all court personnel for their unwavering commitment to making justice more accessible, compassionate, and child friendly. Through partnerships such as these, KTCAP continues to strengthen children’s confidence in the justice system while advancing the Foundation’s mission of promoting access to justice and protecting the rights of every Filipino child.
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.