Too much crime

On one random night on my way home to Consolacion, I was engaged in a conversation with my carpool mates regarding the current state of our cities, especially that quarantine restrictions are now lifted. While this has eased our convenience, it also made criminals very comfortable with the terrain. There is no denying that those with bad intentions are on the rise to get what they can from the public. The most common object to steal would be money to feed their hungry stomachs. Other items would include valuables that could be sold to get money.

Recently, Cebu media intently followed the case of Rhea Tocmo, whose remains were found stuffed inside a box. It was a heinous crime for a very young girl. This incident raised issues about our own safety in Cebu. We take note that she is from another province and came to Cebu in order to find a better life. Based on police reports, the motive of the crime is rather personal. It would lead us to think that it is now very easy to take one's life because of anger. There is no more fear or remorse.

Also, just this week, an 8-year-old girl was kidnapped and placed inside a trolley bag. CCTV footage saw that a man brought the bag outside the house. Police operatives were very quick to track the perpetrator down and rescue her. For sure, the incident was very traumatic for her and the family. The same also applies to parents with young children. I would also feel the same as being insecure in a place we call our home. Then again, we saw how the suspect had no remorse for the action based on anger.

Your emotions will not get you anywhere. In fact, it will only lead the person to crime which would harm innocent lives. There seems to be a resurgence in the concept of making crime look easy. Of course, we cannot blame the police force when something bad happens. It shouldn't be all on them even if their mandate is to serve and protect. While they can actually fulfill this role, there are just many people for them to look after.

It is quite vague on how to address committing crime due to personal issues. For me, it isn't something taught but must be instilled while growing up. It is very easy to distinguish what is right from wrong and we hope that they are able to understand them well.

As more crimes are committed day by day, I hope that this does not drive our potential tourists away or even affect the economy. In one way or another, there will always be repercussions. The local government unit must intervene to beef up their constituents' safety. It might not be adding more policemen or tapping other agencies. There is always a way to deter crime. I hope it becomes a priority; we cannot afford to lose more people.