Authorities in Ilocos Norte have intensified monitoring efforts in urban centers ahead of the holiday rush, citing the seasonal arrival of Badjao families who traditionally seek livelihood opportunities during the Christmas season.

Ilocos Norte Police provincial director Col. Joemar Labiano confirmed in an interview with the Daily Tribune that police personnel have been deployed to transport hubs, commercial districts, and major intersections.

“The presence of Badjao is a sign that Christmas is near,” Labiano said. “This is normal in urban centers, and it is also an indicator that an area is becoming a metropolis.”

Labiano stressed that the police’s primary objective is to balance public order duties with a compassionate, humanitarian response. He stressed that police are monitoring to ensure the safety of the Badjao community, particularly the children, while also addressing public concerns.

“This isn’t just a peace and order issue,” he told DAILY TRIBUNE. “We are monitoring not to penalize them, but to ensure they are not harmed, not abused, and to protect the children especially.”