133 minors nabbed in Makati

Barangay officials in Makati City have intensified the enforcement of the city curfew ordinance and apprehended a total of 133 minors from July 1 to 31.

The minors were all detained overnight at special holding areas inside the barangay halls and released the following day to their guardians and parents. Twelve of the violators were turned over to their respective principals, who also summoned their parents.

Barangay Comembo had the most number of violators with 67. This was followed by Valenzuela, 27; Sta. Cruz, 22; San Isidro, 8; Pitogo, 7; and South Cembo, 6.

Mayor Jejomar Binay also issued a directive to all barangay officials to coordinate with police authorities and school administrators the implementation of the curfew on minors.

Makati’s curfew on minors, which was in place since 1998, prohibits individuals, 18 years and below, from loitering the streets from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. It was first enacted on Jan. 11, 1963 through Municipal Ordinance No. 27 and was revived in 1998 during the term of Mayor Elenita Binay, to address incidents of juvenile violence involving fraternities and teen gangs.

It was further amended by City Ordinance 2001-092, which also increase the penalties imposed on violators.