Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) is exploring ways to strengthen coordination with local government units (LGUs) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in crafting intervention measures to steer minors away from street gangs and criminal activities. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Monday said the proposed measures could form part of the "Safer Cities" initiative in Metro Manila and other parts of the country, particularly in urban areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, the "Safer Cities" campaign was launched by the Department of the Interior and Local Government, enforcing local ordinances, including a 10 p.m. curfew for minors. Gen. Nartatez emphasized the importance of guiding minors to discern right from wrong, rather than treating them as criminals through law enforcement alone.

The statement from the PNP chief follows a viral video incident where minors were seen harassing passengers of a public utility jeepney along Alabang-Zapote Road in Las Pi±as City. One of the minors was reportedly armed with an ice pick. Las Pi±as City police responded to the incident, locating eight minors who were subsequently turned over to barangay authorities and endorsed to the DSWD for intervention in accordance with child protection protocols.

Initial investigations revealed that the incident stemmed from a misunderstanding with the jeepney driver. It was reported that no injuries or property damage occurred. In response to this and similar incidents, Gen. Nartatez has directed police commanders to engage in dialogue with LGUs and the DSWD to address cases involving minors within their jurisdictions.

Furthermore, Gen. Nartatez stressed the involvement of parents in these discussions, highlighting that repeated delinquent behavior often arises from a lack of parental supervision. He remarked, "Discipline begins at home, and when minors cross the line in public, accountability doesn't end with them - it extends to the guidance that failed to stop it."