Quezon city: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has expressed support for a bill that proposes lowering the age of criminal liability, provided that the measure is grounded in scientific research. Torre emphasized the importance of basing any changes on scientific studies and stated that the PNP would submit a formal written stance to lawmakers on this issue.

According to Philippines News Agency, brain function reaches maturity at around 16 years old, impacting children's reasoning and impulse control. Torre's comments come in the context of ongoing discussions about the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, also known as Republic Act 9344. He noted that while the PNP supports lowering the age of discernment, it should be informed by scientific evidence, considering whether current age limits remain applicable given children's increased access to information.

Proponents advocating for a reduction in the age of criminal responsibility argue that children as young as nine possess criminal maturity and discernment. The House of Representatives has previously considered amendments to the law, including proposals to lower the age of criminal responsibility to 12 or even nine years old.