Zafra pushes proper reimposition of curfew

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Councilor Philip Zafra is calling for a summit and a focused group discussion (FGD) to discuss to lay down the parameters as well as the exemptions in the reimposition of curfew.

Zafra, chairman of the peace and order committee, wants proper reimposition of curfew in the city following reports that several minors have been caught staying out on the streets late at night.

The councilor was disturbed by the information that some of these minors are involved in illegal activities such as drug pushing and other criminal acts. He said the curfew ordinance should be enforced properly.

Zafra reminded the public that Mayor Michael Rama’s executive order 163 or the “Oplan Kagawasan” issued last February only lifted the curfew for adults. He said minors are still banned out on the streets from 10 p.m. to 4 p.m.

City Ordinance No. 1786 also prohibits minors of any gender, below 18 years old to be seen on the streets from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. without the company of any guardian or parent.

According to Zafra, some barangay officials have complained about minors roaming around in the streets during the wee hours of the night. Some were even involved in crimes.

He cited an incident in Barangay Bulacao, Cebu City where a 16-year old was robbed and killed. The suspects include at least three minors.

Aside from that, Zafra said he also received several reports of minors being used by drug traffickers. He asked the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) to increase police visibility in areas where there were incidents involving minors.

Zafra is also looking at the possible creation of a Task Force that will look after the welfare of the minors. He is also considering an ordinance for the safety and protection of minors including possible sanctions against parents who are negligent of their responsibilities to their children.

Zafra said it is high time for the city government to act on the problem and bring those responsible to account. He said parents should be responsible for their children.

According to him, parents should be held accountable for negligence whenever their children are caught violating the curfew.— FPL (FREEMAN)