In the Philippines, the law provides robust protection for minors against all forms of violence, including non-physical acts like threats and verbal abuse. If a child is subjected to words that cause emotional distress, fear, or psychological trauma, there are clear legal avenues for redress.

The primary framework for these cases is Republic Act No. 7610, also known as the "Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act," alongside the Revised Penal Code.

1. Legal Basis: What Constitutes Abuse?

Under Philippine law, "child abuse" is not limited to physical battery. It encompasses any act by word or deed which debases, degrades, or demeans the intrinsic worth and dignity of a child as a human being.

Psychological Abuse: Verbal abuse that results in emotional suffering or psychological injury.
Grave and Light Threats: Under the Revised Penal Code (Articles 282-285), threatening a person with a wrong (like bodily harm) is a criminal offense. When the victim is a minor, the severity and impact are viewed more critically by the courts.
Oral Defamation (Slander): Uttering words that smear the reputation or honor of a minor.

2. Who Can File the Complaint?

A minor cannot usually file a lawsuit independently due to legal incapacity. Therefore, a complaint may be filed by:

Parents or Guardians: The most common representatives.
Relatives: Within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity (grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins).
Social Workers: Specifically those from the DSWD or local government units.
Law Enforcement Officers: Specifically those assigned to the Women and Children Protection Desks (WCPD).
Concerned Citizens: At least three (3) concerned, non-related citizens may report the abuse if the child has no immediate family or if the family is the perpetrator.

3. Where to File

The process usually begins at the grassroots level but can escalate depending on the severity of the abuse.

A. The Barangay (Lupong Tagapamayapa)

For "Light Threats" or "Slander" between neighbors, the case may first go through the Katarungang Pambarangay. However, if the act constitutes Child Abuse under RA 7610, it is a public crime and can go straight to the police or prosecutor.

B. Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD)

Every Philippine National Police (PNP) station has a specialized desk for women and children. This is the best place to report verbal abuse and threats. They will assist in taking the child’s statement in a child-friendly environment.

C. The Office of the City or Provincial Prosecutor

If the police find "probable cause," the case is forwarded here for a preliminary investigation to determine if there is enough evidence to file a formal case in court.

4. Steps in Filing the Complaint

Documentation: Gather evidence. Since verbal abuse and threats are often "he-said, she-said," look for witnesses, recordings (if legally obtained), or screenshots of messages (if the abuse happened online).
Psychological Evaluation: It is highly recommended to have the child seen by a child psychologist. A medical report certifying that the child suffered "psychological trauma" or "emotional distress" is powerful evidence in RA 7610 cases.
Sworn Statement (Affidavit): The victim and witnesses will execute an affidavit detailing the incidents.
Filing: Submit the affidavits and supporting documents to the WCPD or the Prosecutor’s Office.

5. Potential Penalties

The penalties depend on the specific law violated:

RA 7610: Violations can lead to Prision Mayor in its minimum period (6 years and 1 day to 8 years) or higher, depending on the gravity.
Revised Penal Code: Grave threats can lead to imprisonment and fines, often increased by one degree if the victim is a minor under certain circumstances.

6. Crucial Reminders

Confidentiality: Under the law, the identity of the minor victim and the records of the case are strictly confidential to protect the child from further stigma. Cyberlibel/Online Threats: If the verbal abuse or threats happened on Facebook or other social media, the Cybercrime Prevention Act (RA 10175) applies, which generally carries higher penalties.

Would you like me to draft a sample template for a demand letter or a basic affidavit of complaint regarding this matter?