DAVAO CITY – A 16-year-old father, driven by poverty, was caught stealing a baby stroller in GSIS Subdivision around 11:00 PM on February 23, 2025.
The complainant, identified as “Mona,” 30, reported to Talomo Police Station 3 that an unknown individual had broken into their house and stolen a child’s stroller.
Responding authorities later found the minor hiding on the house’s roof. He was arrested but immediately turned over to the Women and Children’s Protection Desk (WCPD) due to his age.
The police investigation revealed that the minor, identified as a Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL), originated from Don Marcelino, Davao Occidental, and had been staying with his employer in the GSIS Subdivision. On the night of the incident, he was drinking alcohol with a companion when he noticed the stroller.
In his statement, the minor explained that he took the stroller because he wanted it for his child but could not afford one due to extreme financial hardship.
Authorities are now coordinating with social welfare offices to provide appropriate intervention for the minor.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
