As the new academic year begins in public schools, the Valenzuela City government has passed a landmark ordinance banning street gangs — particularly those known for recruiting minors and engaging in violent and criminal activities.

City Ordinance No. 1262, titled “An Ordinance Prohibiting the Creation and Operation of Street Gangs, Recruitment of Minors to Take Part in Violent Gang Activities, and Activities that Disrupt Public Peace and Order,” allows the local government to impose fines and even imprisonment for gang recruiters and active members.

The ordinance was signed into law amid growing concern over the rising involvement of minors in crimes such as vandalism, drug use, and violent initiation rites.

Police Major Randy Llanderal of the Valenzuela City Police said many minors are caught violating curfew and are often found to be involved in gang activities. “In our operations, many were caught violating curfew. We rescue the minors, but it’s the parents who are issued tickets — they are held responsible when their children are caught,” he said.

Violators are subject to fines and required community service. The city enforces a curfew for minors between 10 PM and 4 AM.

Llanderal added that some street gangs practice violent initiation rituals, including a so-called “30-second massacre” and finger burning to prove loyalty.

Mayor Weslie Gatchalian vowed to protect students from gang influence. “We ourselves — together with the police and the city council — will protect our students, whether inside or outside the school,” he said, revealing that 60 to 70 percent of public schools in the city have been infiltrated by gang activity.

First District Councilor Ghogo Lee also said the city is implementing stricter security measures, including mandatory body frisking and bag inspection in both public and private schools, with consent from students, parents, and student councils. He noted a drop in confiscated bladed weapons and paraphernalia since the measure was introduced.