On his first day back as Mayor of Manila, Isko Moreno signed Executive Order No. 2, reimposing a city-wide curfew for minors, citing the need to protect children from harm and maintain peace and order.
Dubbed “protection hours,” the curfew prohibits individuals under 18 years old from being in public places between 10:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. The order reinforces previously enacted city ordinances—Nos. 8046, 8547, and 8182—and follows provisions under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006.
“No penalty shall be imposed on children for violations of the curfew,” the order reads. Instead, minors found on the streets during restricted hours will be escorted home or turned over to barangay officials until they are released to their parents or guardians.
The executive order also mandates intervention programs such as counseling sessions, group activities, and parenting seminars for at-risk youth.
Rising public concerns
Mayor Moreno said the measure was reintroduced following growing complaints from residents about the presence of minors loitering late at night and becoming involved in activities such as drinking, street fights, illegal drug use, and petty crimes.
“There have been too many reports of children roaming the streets and causing public disturbances,” Moreno said in a media interview. “This order aims to protect them and promote public peace and safety.”
In his State of the City Address on July 1, Moreno said the city government intends to serve as an “extra parent” to Manila’s youth, while calling on families to take greater responsibility for their children’s behavior.
Enforcement and accountability
The Manila Police Department and the Manila Department of Social Welfare have been directed to implement the curfew and set up checkpoints at key locations throughout the city.
While the curfew places no criminal liability on minors, Mayor Moreno warned that repeated defiance may lead to intervention measures under the law. He also reminded parents that they play a vital role in ensuring their children stay home during the designated hours.
“When minors disregard the rules, they not only put themselves in danger but also contribute to disorder in our communities,” Moreno said. “This is not about punishment—it’s about prevention and care.”
Curfews in context
Curfews for minors are not new in Metro Manila. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022, several cities enforced similar restrictions as part of health and safety protocols.
This time, the curfew is being framed as a preventive social welfare measure, with city officials emphasizing child protection and community safety over punishment.
Mayor Moreno assured residents that the city’s approach would remain compassionate, but firm.
“Our goal is simple: to keep our children safe and our communities secure,” he said.