In a startling incident, fifteen Children in Conflict with the Law (CICLs) managed to escape from the Operation Second Chance Center located in Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City. The breakout occurred at approximately 8:10 PM on Saturday, April 11, 2026, prompting an immediate and urgent response from local authorities.
Swift Police Action and Recovery Efforts
Following the escape, the Guadalupe Police Station, under the leadership of Police Captain Venstine Bontilao, quickly launched a hot pursuit operation. This effort involved the Mobile Patrol Unit, Special Weapons and Tactics teams, and personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS). The collaborative response aimed to swiftly locate and apprehend the escaped minors.
By 2:00 AM on Sunday, April 12, 2026, authorities had successfully recovered twelve of the fifteen CICLs. Most were found at their respective homes, indicating a rapid dispersal after the escape. Two additional minors were recovered later on Sunday morning, bringing the total number of recaptured individuals to fourteen.
Investigation into Security Failures
As of the time of reporting, only one CICL remains at large, with ongoing efforts to ensure their safe return. Councilor Dave Tumulak, chairman of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in the Cebu City Council, confirmed that the Operation Second Chance Center is managed by the DSWS. He also revealed that an investigation has been initiated to determine how three mobile phones were smuggled into the facility, despite strict prohibitions against such items.
The escape was reportedly triggered after social workers conducted a greyhound operation following dinner. During this search of the CICLs' rooms, the three phones were confiscated. In response, the fifteen minors created a noise barrage and proceeded to destroy the window grills at the back of the facility. After breaking through these barriers, they jumped and fled the premises.
Councilor Tumulak emphasized that the investigation will focus on identifying the lapses that allowed the phones to enter the center. Additionally, authorities are reviewing measures to strengthen security at the Operation Second Chance Center to prevent similar incidents in the future. This includes evaluating current protocols and implementing enhanced safeguards to ensure the safety and rehabilitation of the minors under their care.
