Actress-comedian Tuesday Vargas has weighed in on the growing calls to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility following the tragic shooting incident at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City.
In a Facebook post, Vargas said the issue is far more complicated than simply imprisoning minors involved in crimes.
“IKULONG NANG 12 AÑOS… Yan ang sigaw ng karamihan sa nakaka basa ng balita tungkol sa sunod sunod na karahasan na nangyayari sa ating mga paaralan,” she wrote.
While acknowledging public outrage over the incident, Vargas urged Filipinos to look deeper into the root causes of youth violence.
“But it is not that simple. Bago tayo tumalon sa ipapa kulong na natin ang mga menor de edad na ito, silipin naman natin kung nasan nag uugat ang problema. Because this problem is more complicated than we think.”
The actress stressed that schools should remain safe environments where children can learn and grow.
“Schools are supposed to be safe sanctuaries for learning. When violence reaches classrooms, it points to systemic issues—ranging from inadequate campus security to unaddressed bullying and gaps in mental health support.”
Vargas’ comments come amid renewed public debate on whether current juvenile justice laws remain sufficient in addressing serious crimes involving minors.
