THE RECENT spate of violent incidents involving minors in Iloilo City has brought the problem of juvenile delinquency to the forefront of public concern. From stabbing incidents in La Paz and Molo districts to brawls among groups of minors during curfew hours, the challenge of youth violence is a pressing one.
The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) has rightfully emphasized the enforcement of the curfew ordinance, which prohibits minors from loitering in public spaces between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. without a responsible adult. But is the curfew alone sufficient to address the root causes of this growing problem?
On the surface, curfew ordinances serve as a deterrent, limiting the opportunities for minors to engage in potentially harmful activities during late hours. Its strict enforcement, coupled with the referral of violators to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), is good. However, enforcement is only one piece of a much larger puzzle. A curfew ordinance may stop minors from gathering in public spaces, but it does little to address the deeper social, familial, and economic issues that often lead to delinquent behavior.
For many of these minors, violence and conflict are symptoms of a broader lack of guidance, support, and constructive engagement. Parents, guardians, and barangay officials must step up as active participants in this shared responsibility. Ensuring that minors return home promptly after attending Misa de Gallo or other holiday activities requires vigilance from families, while barangay tanods and officials must increase their presence in public areas to discourage potential conflicts.
To truly curb juvenile delinquency, Iloilo City must go beyond curfew enforcement. Community programs that engage young people in meaningful activities, such as sports, arts, and skills training, can provide alternatives to loitering and violence. Collaboration between schools, churches, and local government units (LGUs) can help instill values of discipline and respect among minors.
Additionally, there is a need for early intervention mechanisms. Guidance counselors in schools and social workers in barangays should be empowered to identify and assist at-risk youth before they spiral into delinquency. Family-oriented programs that address parenting gaps and foster communication between parents and children are equally vital.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of the curfew ordinance hinges on how well it is integrated into a broader framework of youth development and community safety. As ICPO Police Colonel Kim Legada aptly stated, this is a community challenge requiring a shared solution.
