Lapu-Lapu City Police Tighten Curfew Enforcement for Minors
The Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LCPO) has issued a strong appeal to parents, minors, and the general public to strictly adhere to City Ordinance No. 179-2009, which mandates a curfew for individuals under the age of 18. This regulation prohibits minors from being outside their homes without adult supervision between the hours of 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM.
According to the LCPO, the ordinance explicitly forbids minors from loitering or wandering in public areas during the designated curfew period. The police emphasize that compliance is crucial for community safety and the well-being of young residents.
Escalating Penalties for Violations
The ordinance outlines a progressive penalty system based on the number of offenses committed by a minor. For the first violation, authorities will require the parent or guardian to retrieve the minor from the police station after the incident is logged in a blotter. The child will receive a formal warning, and the parent must sign an agreement pledging that the minor will not repeat the offense.
In cases of a second violation, the same initial procedures apply, but with an additional requirement: both the parent and the minor must attend a half-day parenting seminar. This aims to educate families on responsible supervision and the importance of curfew adherence.
For a third violation, the penalties become more stringent. Authorities will impose a seven-day community service obligation for both the parent and the minor, to be completed on Saturdays, Sundays, or public holidays. This measure seeks to foster a sense of civic responsibility.
Upon a fourth violation, financial penalties come into effect. Parents will face fines ranging from P3,000 to P5,000, depending on the severity of the infraction. Each subsequent violation beyond the fourth will incur an additional P500 fine, underscoring the city's commitment to deterring repeat offenses.
The LCPO stresses that these measures are designed to protect minors from potential risks during late-night hours and to promote a safer community environment. Public cooperation is essential for the successful implementation of this long-standing ordinance.
