Iloilo City may tighten curfew hours for minors

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Iloilo City government is considering adjusting curfew hours for minors in response to a rise in youth-related incidents.

Councilor Jose Maria Dela Llana, chair of the Committee on Social Services, said a multi-agency task force is reviewing a proposal to move the curfew from 10 p.m.–4 a.m. to 8 p.m.–4 a.m.

The task force includes the City Social Welfare and Development Office, Iloilo City Police Office, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation, Liga ng mga Barangay, Task Force on Moral Values, and other stakeholders.

The group met on August 29 to address concerns over minors’ involvement in curfew violations, vandalism, public brawls, and malicious mischief.

“They are proposing that we lower the curfew hours starting from 8 p.m. until 5 a.m.,” Dela Llana said.

He added that before amending the current ordinance, the city will consult with schools that still hold evening classes.

Despite pending consultations, Dela Llana said he supports stricter curfew enforcement to better protect minors from harm.

He also called on barangay officials to strictly implement the current curfew ordinance.

While the situation is not yet “alarming,” Dela Llana said authorities continue to monitor youth groups such as Carabao, Snitch, and BTS.

He added that the city will shift from engaging gang leaders directly to collaborating with barangays where the minors live, reinforcing that discipline should begin at the community level.

As part of a holistic approach, Dela Llana said the city is also planning to organize a mental health talk for parents of affected minors.