04/03/2026
Police Files Criminal Charges Against Father for Child Neglect Following Minor’s Motorcycle Accident
A criminal case was formally filed on March 3, 2026, against the father of a minor involved in a vehicular accident in the province, marking a stern crackdown on parental neglect.
The case, a violation of Paragraph 12, Article 59 of Presidential Decree No. 603 (The Child and Youth Welfare Code), stems from a road crash that occurred on February 25, 2026.
​According to the police report, said minor was operating a motorcycle with another minor as a passenger along the National Highway heading toward Bato.
Upon reaching a curved portion of the road, the driver lost control and crashed into a muddy area on the far right side of the roadway. Both individuals sustained various physical injuries and were rushed to the hospital by responding personnel from the BFP and MDRRMO.
Following an in-depth investigation, the authorities determined that the father of the minor driver was liable for neglect by allowing an unlicensed minor to operate a motor vehicle. The involved minors have been referred to the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) and the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) office for appropriate intervention.
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The Catanduanes Police Provincial Office (CatPPO) led by PCOL ELMER R CERENO, Provincial Director, issues a serious warning to all parents and guardians allowing minor children to drive motorcycles or vehicles is a direct violation of the law.
Depending on the gravity of the case, parents may face charges under PD 603 or RA 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act). Penalties range from fines and short-term imprisonment under PD 603 to Prision Mayor (6 years and 1 day to 12 years) under RA 7610.
"The safety of our children starts at home. Allowing a minor to drive is not just a traffic violation; it is a form of neglect that puts lives at risk. We will not hesitate to file charges against parents/ guardians who fail in their duty to protect their children and the public." PCOL CERENO stated.
The filing of these charges comes as CatPPO intensifies its campaign against underage driving. Data from 2025 to date reveals a concerning trend, with 20 recorded vehicular accidents involving minors across the province. One of these incidents in the municipality of Virac resulted in a fatality.
