Authorities in Cebu City conducted a rescue operation on Monday afternoon, taking eight individuals from the Badjao community into custody for allegedly begging at a busy intersection. The incident highlights ongoing efforts to enforce local ordinances and ensure public safety as the city prepares for major upcoming events.
Joint Operation at Cardinal Rosales Intersection
The rescue took place at approximately 1:15 p.m. on December 22, 2025. It occurred at the corner of Cardinal Rosales Avenue and F. Cabahug Street in Barangay Mabolo, Cebu City. The operation was a coordinated effort involving personnel from three key agencies:
- The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO)
- The Cebu City Anti-Mendicancy Office
- The Department of Social Welfare and Services
The eight individuals, all residents of Sitio Nava in Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City, originally hail from Jolo, Sulu. They were transported to the Mabolo Police Station following the intervention.
Violation of Ordinance and Public Safety Concerns
According to Lt. Col. Jose Losbaños, the CCPO information officer, the activity violated City Ordinance 163, commonly known as the Anti-Mendicancy Ordinance. Losbaños explained that such practices are not merely a violation of local law but also pose significant risks to public order and safety.
"It causes danger and at the same time causes traffic on our public roads," Losbaños stated, emphasizing the dual threat to personal safety and traffic flow. The operation was initiated after a concerned citizen filed a complaint two months prior, reporting that beggars were knocking on car windows and boarding public utility vehicles while carrying small children.
Context and Future Operations
This enforcement action comes at a critical time for Cebu City. The metropolis is gearing up for two significant events: the vibrant Sinulog festival in January and the high-profile Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit scheduled for the following month. Authorities have indicated that such operations will continue as part of broader preparations to maintain order and security during these important gatherings.
The rescued individuals have been identified as:
- Vanessa, 23
- Shoraywa, 29
- Esmelinda, 34
- Salbeta, 30
- Nolayda, 42
- Jolina, 27
- Alma, 45
- Josaline, 52
Lt. Col. Losbaños affirmed that the police remain committed to assisting local government units in these ongoing efforts to address mendicancy and its associated challenges on the city's streets.
