PUBLIC disturbances that involve minors in Talisay City may be a thing of the past. No incidents have been reported since the start of the year.
City Councilor Hydellin Rafols, chairperson of the committee on women, family and children, said this can be attributed to the diversion program introduced by the City Government with the help of City Social Welfare and Development personnel and the Gender and Development focal person in the barangays where “troublesome” youths live.
Local police had been monitoring five youth gangs to prevent minors from gathering in the streets past curfew hours since last August.
Their aim was to get the leaders’ names, trace their parents so police could speak to them and find out the members’ names.
Barangay Dumlog was once of the places where youth riots took place.
Councilor Rafols said she has already seen the impact of the program, which also involves a spiritual aspect.
San Roque Barangay Captain Jun Cabrera said some youths who reside in the barangay have been placed under the program.
Cabrera said he looks forward to a change in their attitude once they complete the program. (BBT, PJB)