The Kids and Teens Court Awareness Program (KTCAP) recently conducted a court tour and learning session at the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 94, aimed at helping children understand how the justice system works and how they can bravely share their stories in court.
The session was led by Hon. Judge Roslyn Rabara-Tria, who guided the participants with both authority and compassion.
Learning from the Judge
During the orientation, Judge Rabara-Tria spoke directly to the children and shared one of the most important lessons in life and in court: “Always tell the truth. Be brave in speaking out.”
(“Lakasan ang loob, huwag matakot.”)
She emphasized that truth is the foundation of justice. Even when a child feels nervous or unsure, what matters most is that they speak honestly about what they remember.
Using Anatomically Correct Dolls to Tell Their Story
To help children feel more comfortable, the court introduced the anatomically correct dolls and role-play materials. These tools allow young witnesses to:
• Point out or demonstrate what happened without directly talking about themselves.
• Express their experiences in a way that feels safer and less frightening.
This approach reduces trauma and helps children communicate more clearly in a supportive environment.
It’s Okay to Forget Details
The judge reassured the children that it’s okay if they can’t remember the exact date or time of an incident. They can simply say: “Nakalimutan ko po.”
“Hindi ko po matandaan.”
What matters most is that they remain honest and consistent with what they do recall.
How to Testify in Court
The children were also guided on how to testify properly and confidently in court:
• Answer only what is asked.
• Tell the truth, even when it feels difficult.
• Speak clearly, and don’t be afraid.
Judge Rabara-Tria reminded them that the court’s role is to listen and protect, not to intimidate or frighten.
How a Case Starts in Court/ Court Process
Understanding how a case moves through court helps children — and the adults who support them — feel more prepared and braver. 💙
1️⃣ Complaint Filed – A report is made to the police, barangay, or Office of the Prosecutor. The prosecutor studies the evidence and issues a Resolution saying if the case should go to court.
2️⃣ Arraignment – The Clerk of Court reads the charge, and the Judge asks the accused to say “Guilty” or “Not Guilty.”
3️⃣ Pre-Trial – The judge, prosecutor, and lawyer discuss the evidence and witnesses to prepare for trial.
4️⃣ Trial – Both sides present their evidence. Children may testify in a child-friendly room or through video link.
5️⃣ Decision – The judge studies everything and decides if the accused is guilty or not guilty.
6️⃣ Appeal – If one side disagrees, they can ask a higher court to review the case.
For Children:
You are not alone. The court and your support team are there to help you feel safe and brave. Always tell the truth. 💛
For Parents and Social Workers:
Be calm and reassuring. Help the child understand each step. Your support makes them strong. 🌟
Through this, the children learned that the law exists to protect them, and that justice is achieved step by step.
A Final Message of Courage
As the court tour came to an end, the key takeaways were simple yet powerful:
Always tell the truth.
Do not be afraid. (“Huwag matakot.”)
Be brave. (“Lakasan ang loob.”)
By combining practical guidance with compassion, the program helped children see that while the court process may seem intimidating, they are not alone — and their voices matter.
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.”