THE Cebu City Environmental Sanitation and Enforcement Team (Ceset) is seeking police assistance and stronger support from the new city administration.
This request follows a series of safety threats against its personnel during street sanitation operations.
Ceset head Grace Luardo stated on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, that her teams face increasing risks while cleaning areas occupied by street dwellers. Some street dwellers have shown aggression toward enforcers.
“Ang enforcement gyud kay risgo, mao gyud na ang challenge nato ug kinahanglang ato gyud na i-fight,” Luardo said, referring to the dangers enforcement teams face.
Luardo disclosed that Ceset formally requested backup from the Cebu City Police Office after recent incidents. Ceset personnel were threatened with stones and chased with a knife.
“Amo na gi request karon sa PNP nga nangayo gyud mi og back up sa atong operations may bag-ohay palang ang atong tawo og bato, naay gigukod og kutsilyo,” she added.
Luardo explained that hazards are particularly present in streets where some homeless individuals have set up makeshift shelters. This aggressive behavior makes routine cleaning operations more dangerous for frontline workers.
Ceset is appealing for better coordination with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of its personnel while maintaining cleanliness and order in public spaces. (CDF)