THE proposed curfew ordinance for minors in Bayambang has sparked a lively public hearing, with residents and various sectors raising questions and offering suggestions regarding its potential impact and implementation.

The ordinance, titled “Ordinance Providing Special Protection for Children by Imposing Curfew on Minors from 9:00 in the Evening to 4:00 in the Morning,” aims to protect children and reduce juvenile delinquency, teenage pregnancies, and HIV cases.

The public hearing, held on September 8, was led by Councilor Jocelynn S. Espejo, chair of the Committee on Social Services and the primary sponsor of the ordinance, along with fellow councilors Jose S. Ramos and Rodelito F. Bautista.

They were joined by other members of the Sangguniang Bayan and local stakeholders, including parents, teachers, students, and officials from the town’s 77 barangays.

Most attendees expressed support for the ordinance’s objective of safeguarding minors, but raised practical concerns about how it would be enforced, especially provisions related to exemptions for minors with guardians.

A particular point of contention was Section 8, which outlines the exemption for minors who are with their guardians. A local teacher and youth formation adviser pointed out that not all adults accompanying minors should be considered guardians, particularly those who may have romantic intent on the minors.

The panelists assured that they would consider all the feedback and refine the ordinance to ensure its effectiveness and fairness. The Sangguniang Bayan will then review the draft ordinance before finalizing it for approval. (Ahikam Pasion)

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