Mayor eyes 3 a.m. curfew on minors

Mayor Tomas Osmeña yesterday proposed that the span of time of the curfew on minors in Cebu City be moved to 3 a.m. until the break of day, probably at around 5 a.m.

During his press conference, Osmeña pointed out that his suggestion may serve as the key in the proper implementation of City Ordinance 1786, which prohibits minors on the streets from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. without a parent or guardian.

He reasoned out that it is good to implement the curfew beginning 3 a.m. because “there are fewer people on the streets during this time.”

“Let’s start at 3 a.m., if that works then we can move it to 2:30, and then as early as two o’clock,” he said.

He laments on the fact that lawmakers have pushed for such a law that is not being properly implemented because “implementors themselves lack enforcing capabilities resulting to the non-compliance of the public.”

Aside from this, he pointed out that the lack of policemen has hampered the city government from fully implementing the ordinance.

“Coming up with said law is useless without its proper implementation,” Osmeña added.

Further, the ordinance stated that first-time offenders will be turned over to their parents or guardian who will be required to execute an undertaking to the effect that the minors will not be allowed to go out alone.

On second offense, the violator will be required to undergo a half-day parenting course together with either the parents or guardian.

Third-time offenders will have to render seven days community service and orientation on the importance of the curfew.

On fourth offense, appropriate charges will be filed against the offender’s parents or guardians.  — Junel Joe Gato/MEEV