ILOILO CITY – The local government has urged parents and guardians to ensure minors comply with curfew regulations, highlighting the importance of vigilance amid recent youth-related incidents during restricted hours.
Mayor Jerry Treñas on Thursday expressed concern over altercations and stabbing incidents reported in La Paz and Molo districts, which occurred during curfew hours.
“These incidents are reminders of the pressing need for all of us – parents, barangay officials, and the entire city – to take active roles in guiding and protecting our children. It is our shared responsibility to keep them safe and prevent their involvement in activities that may lead to harm,” Treñas said in a statement.
He urged barangay officials to step up their patrols and maintain close coordination with the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) to strengthen the enforcement of the city’s curfew ordinance.
Maj. Shella Mae Sangrines, ICPO spokesperson, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address juvenile delinquency and ensure public safety.
“The incidents highlight the urgency for stricter implementation of curfew rules. City regulations prohibit minors from being in public places between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. unless accompanied by a responsible adult,” she noted.
ICPO director Col. Kim Legada directed police units to rigorously enforce curfew rules, stressing that minors found unsupervised would be referred to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for intervention.
Records showed that the first stabbing incident was on Dec. 17 in La Paz district, involving a 14-year-old victim.
He was on his way home with his friends when a group of minors chased them. The victim was stabbed in his back by one of the minors.
The second incident happened on Wednesday at around 5:30 a.m. when a 16-year-old boy, while waiting for his friend, after a Mass at Molo Plaza, was approached by an unidentified suspect and stabbed him.
Both victims are out of danger.
“The recent incidents involving minors are deeply concerning. We urge parents, community leaders, and stakeholders to work together to guide and monitor our youth. Creating a safer environment requires collective responsibility,” Legada said.
The ICPO, in partnership with social welfare offices and local officials, recently launched the Revitalizing Reach-Out and Intensifying Programs for Safety and Welfare of Children and Community for Protection (RE-RAIS for Protection) to address vulnerabilities, enhance child welfare, and promote safer communities.
Residents are encouraged to report curfew violations or seek assistance via ICPO hotlines at 0908-377-0194 or 335-0299. (PNA)
