By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos
MANILA – Malacañang on Friday came to the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s defense as it implements the “Safer Cities” program, disputing claims that it is “anti-poor.”
Speaking to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the initiative, which was initially piloted in Metro Manila, is meant to enhance public safety and instill discipline among juvenile delinquents.
“Unang-una po, ito ay matagal nang mga ordinansa. Pinapatupad lamang po ng DILG (First of all, these are long-standing ordinances. They are only being implemented by the DILG),” Castro said.
“Hindi po naman ibig sabihin na ang pagdidisiplina sa mga kabataan para maging mas safe sila at protected ay anti-poor na. Hindi po lahat ng pagdidisiplina ay sasabihing anti-poor. Ito po ay para sa proteksyon ng bawat Pilipino (This does not mean that disciplining the youth to make them safer and protected is anti-poor. Not all discipline can be said to be anti-poor. This is for the protection of every Filipino).”
The Safer Cities initiative includes measures such as a 10 p.m. curfew for minors, public drinking restrictions, and prohibitions on late-night videoke sessions.
The program has faced criticism from various groups, including the Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan, for its potential impact on the youth.
It has been described as “anti-poor” and “robe to abuse,” with concerns raised about the possibility of profiling and harassment of young people.
Castro cited various complaints from parents over their minor children who refuse to return home early and could no longer be disciplined.
She also assured that the measures would be implemented with respect for human rights.
“Sa lahat ng nang-aabuso, ngayon pa lang po, isumbong niyo po agad para po maproteksyonan din ang mga inaabuso at mapanagot ang mga awtoridad na nang-aabuso ng kanilang kapangyarihan (Immediately report those who will abuse so that those who are being abused can also be protected and the authorities who abuse their power can be held accountable),” Castro said. (PNA)
