Group calls ‘safer cities’ anti-poor; DILG defends initiative

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MANILA, Philippines — Public safety should never be compromised even if the country is facing an energy crisis, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said yesterday as he defended the government’s intensified campaign against ordinance violators.

Remulla made the remark after a youth group criticized the “Safer Cities” program launched by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Metro Manila.

The Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan (SPARK) denounced the initiative as “anti-poor” and “prone to abuse,” saying it may encourage profiling and harassment.

“This may embolden police to profile and harass citizens, especially the youth labeled as geng geng (gangster),” the group said in a statement.

Remulla on Monday ordered a stricter enforcement of a 10 p.m. curfew for minors and prohibition on public drinking and late-night videoke.

Authorities said the Safer Cities initiative aims to deter crime in Metro Manila and other major urban areas.

The youth group questioned the basis of the curfew, saying it could arbitrarily restrict the movement of young people, including those engaged in legitimate activities.

“Not everyone has the luxury of carrying identification cards to present to authorities. This is especially true for those who are informally employed, such as helpers, vendors and errand workers,” the group said.

The group also challenged the DILG to present data proving that curfews effectively reduce crime.

“Secretary Remulla should provide concrete, evidence-based studies showing how juvenile curfews significantly reduce crime. Otherwise, these are sweeping restrictions on the constitutional freedoms of the youth,” SPARK said.

The group likewise raised concerns over possible abuse by law enforcers, citing previous incidents during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Remulla said he wants people to feel safer when they are out on the streets.

“Among the safety measures is intensifying operations against ordinance violators,” Remulla said.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. assured the public that the PNP is committed to safeguarding human rights while enforcing community ordinances.