Caloocan steps up curfew enforcement

Caloocan City Mayor Enrico Echiverri, concerned about increasing reports of adolescents involved in scrapes with the law during the unholy hours, yesterday urged barangay officials to implement a city ordinance on curfew for minors more strictly.

Echiverri found issue with the officials following reports of laxity on the part of local officials in its observance in their areas.

The mayor believes tightening up on the unnecessary presence of minors in the streets at late hours contributes significantly in reduced crime incidence.

"Enforcing the curfew more diligently is an effective way to keeping minors off the streets at late hours that give them opportunities to engage or unwittingly get involved in mischief and violence," Echiverri said.

The ordinance directs local residents aged 17 and below to stay home from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Exempted from the curfew are those who study or work at night, and minors accompanied by adults or on errands, particularly in emergency situations.

Echiverri also announced to the public that the curfew will not be imposed on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, feast days, Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday during the Holy Week, and on All Saints Day.

The mayor has ordered city police chief Senior Superintendent Leo Garra to double efforts in keeping the residents safe during these times and deploy additional personnel to man the streets particularly at night.

He had earlier asked higher police authorities to augment the number of policemen assigned in the city.

Echiverri pointed out that the city may, at present, have an inadequate number of police personnel, but this should not be a reason for them to slacken in carrying out their duties.