News and Press Releases 2/4

Position Statement

Understanding and Preventing Youth-Perpetrated Violence:

A Developmental Science Perspective

August 18, 2026

In the wake of another act of school violence carried out by a minor — the latest in a series of similar incidents across different provinces in recent months — A Child's DREAM Foundation offers this statement grounded in developmental science, not speculation.

Our aim is to move the public conversation from shock and single-cause blame toward what the evidence actually shows about why this happens and what measurably reduces it.

WHAT THE EVIDENCE SHOWS INCREASES RISK

• Unaddressed adverse childhood experiences (ACEs): abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, and chronic exposure to violence at home or in the community measurably raise risk for later violent behavior.

• Untreated mental health and behavioral conditions: risk rises not from diagnosis itself, but from lack of access to timely, appropriate care.

• Social rupture: chronic bullying, cyberbullying, and social isolation, especially when unnoticed by trusted adults.

• Access to lethal means: the presence and accessibility of weapons in the home is one of the most consistent, modifiable risk factors in the research.

• Contagion effects: sensationalized, detailed media coverage of prior incidents is associated with copycat behavior in vulnerable youth.

WHAT THE EVIDENCE CAUTIONS AGAINST

• Single-cause narratives: attributing these acts solely to video games, "bad parenting," or mental illness oversimplifies a multi-factorial problem and delays real prevention.

• Purely punitive, zero-tolerance responses: without accompanying support, these do not address underlying risk and can further disconnect at-risk youth.

• Sensational reporting: naming perpetrators prominently or detailing methods is linked to contagion; responsible reporting guidelines exist and should be followed.

WHAT THE EVIDENCE SUPPORTS

• Routine developmental and mental health screening in schools, integrated with real referral pathways, not just checklists.

• Evidence-based threat assessment programs that identify and support students in crisis rather than merely surveil or punish.

• Stronger school connectedness so every student has at least one trusted adult who would notice a change.

• Safe storage and restricted youth access to firearms in the home — a modifiable factor with strong evidentiary support.

• Accessible, destigmatized youth mental health services in communities, not only in urban centers.

OUR COMMITMENT

A Child's DREAM Foundation stands ready to work with schools, fellow civic organizations, and government partners to translate this evidence into practice — through screening support, professional volunteer mobilization, and family-facing education. We extend this offer in partnership with the Rotary Club of Makati Business District's ongoing call for mental health and school safety professionals.

In Christ,

Francis Xavier Dimalanta, MD, FPPS, FPSDBP

Founder & Medical Director, A Child's DREAM Foundation, Inc.

Click here to register

From Grief to Grace:
A Vatican Reflection

This reflection arises from a crucible of profound grief and undeniable grace — tracing a journey through loss, renewal, and quiet transformation. In recent months, life has unfolded in ways both humbling and holy: I left a beloved home of twelve years and bid a final farewell to my dearest Mom. My sister, Anne Marie, continues to wage a courageous battle against ovarian cancer, having endured a grueling twelve-hour surgery and the challenging path of chemotherapy. Yet, amid such trials, I have found myself surrounded by blessings beyond measure — none more unexpected than the invitation to speak at the Vatican. I no longer seek to question the why behind these interwoven moments of sorrow and triumph. My prayer now is simpler: for the strength to persevere, and for the steadfast faith to recognize God’s hand in all things — in both comfort and tribulation. This pilgrimage carries even deeper meaning, for today coincides with the thirteenth death anniversary of my beloved father, Johnnie M. Dimalanta — a man of unshakable faith and integrity, whose life of service was honored with the Order of St. Sylvester Papal Award in 2010. His guiding spirit continues to illuminate my path, especially as I embraced the sacred privilege of speaking on a Vatican stage. In the wake of losing you, Mom, I clung more tightly than ever to the embrace of grace. On your 40th day, I dedicated my Vatican lecture to you — “In Defense of the Defenseless: The Adolescent Emergency through the Eyes of Saint Francis.” It was a reflection of your own life’s quiet mission — always standing in defense of the defenseless. This extraordinary journey to the Vatican — where I was given the distinct honor of sharing insights from 25 years as a developmental pediatrician — became a lesson in humility, inner peace, and the redemptive power of forgiveness. It was a gentle yet resounding reminder that even amid hardship, God’s path unfolds toward unforeseen blessings and opportunities to serve on a higher plane. I was further graced with a private audience with Pope Leo, together with the speakers and delegates of the International Seminar— a moment that remains etched in both awe and gratitude. To crown this pilgrimage, I witnessed the deeply moving concert at St. Peter’s Square, “Grace for the World,” co-directed by Andrea Bocelli and Pharrell Williams — a luminous celebration of human connection that brought together artists such as John Legend and Karol G, culminating in a breathtaking drone and light show. To be recognized for the work I am called to do is a privilege beyond words — a divine affirmation that every sorrow surrendered, every act of service, and every moment of faith is never in vain. May we all continue to walk the paths God sets before us — finding profound joy in the smallest of things, and trusting fully in His boundless grace. ⎯ You may watch Dr. Francis Dimalanta's Full Vatican Lecture by pressing play on the video below. ↓