The local government of Manila will begin strictly enforcing a citywide curfew for all minors from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., starting Wednesday.
The directive comes from Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, who is reimplementing City Ordinance 8046, which prohibits individuals under 18 from loitering on city streets.
In his order, the mayor said that the Manila Department of Social Welfare (MDSW) has been tasked with leading the implementation of the ordinance, reinforced by a new executive order signed by him.
He added that the measure aims to clear the streets of minors who he believes have become “uncontrolled” and are often involved in “rumble, gang wars and violence.”
MDSW director Jay dela Fuente confirmed in an interview that enforcement will commence Wednesday night. All six MDSW district offices will conduct roving patrols, accompanied by police and the Manila Risk Reduction Management Office, in cooperation with local barangays.
During a closed-door meeting at the MDSW office, officials established a system for the enforcement and “rescue” of children found violating curfew hours.
Dela Fuente said all MDSW district officials have devised a plan to provide 24-hour service at their district offices, which will act as processing centers for minors who violate the curfew.
Parents of curfew violators will be contacted and required to undergo counseling with social workers to understand the law’s provisions.
Earlier, the MDSW conducted operations to rescue street dwellers, clearing areas such as Taft Avenue, Roxas Boulevard, the vicinity of Manila City Hall and other city plazas.
A total of 98 individuals were taken to the MDSW holding center in Arroceros before being transferred to the Marikina Boys Town complex.