BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City — Mayor Jerry Treñas has called on policemen to step up patrol operations to safeguard residents this holiday season, particularly during Simbang Gabi.
Treñas’ directive came following the recent incidents, including the stabbing of a minor in La Paz district and multiple altercations in Molo district during curfew hours.
In a statement, Treñas underscored the importance of strictly enforcing the city’s curfew ordinance, especially for minors.
“Let us strengthen our enforcement of the city’s curfew ordinance and ensure that minors are properly monitored, especially during the Simbang Gabi,” Treñas stressed.
He also reiterated the need for a collective effort from parents, barangay officials, and law enforcement to maintain peace and order in Iloilo City during the holiday season.
A 14-year-old boy sustained injuries in a stabbing incident on the morning of December 19 in Barangay Lopez Jaena Sur, La Paz.
The police identified the suspect as Fred, a Grade 8 student from Barangay Baldoza, La Paz.
Fred claimed he and his friends were heading home after attending the early morning Misa de Gallo when they were attacked by a group of male minors without provocation.
Among the assailants were Janjan, 14, of Barangay Don Esteban, Lapuz, and aliases Rey, Mark, and Cyrus, all from Barangay Sinikway, Lapuz.
The altercation escalated when Janjan allegedly stabbed Fred in the upper right back. The attackers fled the scene immediately after the incident, leaving Fred injured. He was later taken to the West Visayas State University Medical Center for treatment.
Police investigations revealed that all the suspects involved were under 15 years old.
Authorities coordinated with barangay officials and summoned the suspects’ parents as part of the ongoing investigation.
In response, Treñas has called for stricter enforcement of the city’s curfew ordinance to prevent similar incidents.
Treñas emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order as residents participate in these traditional early morning masses and holiday celebrations.
The mayor also called on parents and guardians to do their part in supervising their children to avoid untoward incidents.
In addition, Treñas underscored the urgent need for collective action following recent incidents involving minors, highlighting the importance of guiding and protecting the youth.
“As Mayor of Iloilo City, I call on parents and guardians to remain vigilant and ensure their children are home during curfew hours. It is our shared duty to safeguard them and prevent their involvement in situations that may cause harm,” he said.
He also urged barangay officials to intensify patrols and maintain close coordination with the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), noting their critical role in maintaining peace and order in local communities.
The mayor said the city government, in partnership with the ICPO and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, remains committed to implementing programs that address juvenile concerns.
However, the mayor stressed that these efforts cannot succeed without the cooperation of the entire community.
“Families and communities play a vital role in shaping the values and behavior of our youth,” he said, noting that all Ilonggos should unite in ensuring that Iloilo City remains a safe and peaceful place for everyone./PN
