DSWD to step into Freddie’s love affair

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) may intervene in the May-December affair of 60-year-old singer Freddie Aguilar with a 16-year-old girl.

Aguilar drew criticism from the public after he admitted his relationship with a minor.

Reports said that the singer-composer of the worldwide hit song “Anak” may be sued for child abuse or seduction by being in a relationship with a minor.

Under the Revised Penal Code, seduction of a girl who is under 18 years of age is considered a crime against chastity.

Child abuse, on the other hand, is considered a public offense and that agencies like the DSWD can file a case for victims under Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

Dulfie Shalim of the DSWD Protective Services Bureau said social workers are set to visit the teenager’s parents in Mindoro to determine if they approved of the relationship of Aguilar with their daughter.

“The girl is considered a minor under the law. That means she is vulnerable to abuse, and not yet capable to discern,” Shalim said.