ILOILO City Mayor Raisa Treñas has ordered the reactivation of the Task Force Badjao in response to circulating social media reports about individuals claiming to be “Badjao” within the downtown area and near schools.
The measure aims to intensify monitoring and enforcement as the city enters the “ber” months.
“Per history, naga-data ni sila kun maglapit ang Paskwa, amo nga temprano pa lang, ginapasangkad na naton ang monitoring kag enforcement,” Treñas said.
(Per history, they get data when Christmas approaches, so early on, we are expanding monitoring and enforcement.)
The City Government’s action plan includes deploying City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) personnel in coordination with Barangay Councils of Tagbak, Ungka, in Jaro District, Baldoza in La Paz District, and transport terminals. Assistance desks have been installed at Mohon Terminal and Parola Wharf to monitor and immediately respond to the arrival of individuals identified as Badjao from buses.
“I understand the alarm and frustration of our residents. Indi naton pagpasugtan nga indi safe ang aton public spaces, food establishments, kag eskwelahan,” the mayor said.
(I understand the alarm and frustration of our residents. We will not allow our public spaces, food establishments, and schools to be unsafe.)
She added that she is coordinating with the Iloilo City Police Office (Icpo), Public Order and Safety Management Office (Posmo), and CSWDO for increased visibility and swift action on complaints.
Treñas acknowledged that there are legal and humanitarian considerations in addressing the situation but stressed that the city will not tolerate harassment, theft, or any form of abuse against residents and children.
“Iloilo City must remain safe for everyone, taga-dirî man ukon bisita,” she said.
(Iloilo City must remain safe for everyone, residents and visitors.) (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)