Iloilo City tightens terminal watch over ‘Badjao’ complaints

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Iloilo City government has tightened monitoring at major transport terminals and entry points following reports of individuals claiming to be “Badjao” harassing diners, commuters, and students in various parts of the city.

Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu said City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) personnel have been deployed to strategic locations in coordination with barangay councils in areas hosting major entry points.

Terminals such as Mohon Terminal and Parola Wharf are included in the intensified operations, with assistance desks set up to monitor and respond to incidents, including cases where “Badjao” individuals disembark from buses.

The deployment is part of the reactivation of Task Force Badjao ahead of the “ber” months, citing past observations that the presence of “Badjao” in public areas increases as the Christmas season approaches.

The task force is headed by Hector Alejano and is working closely with the Task Force on Street Children to conduct reach-out operations for families and children in street situations.

Treñas-Chu said she has coordinated with the Iloilo City Police Office, Public Order and Safety Management Office, and CSWDO to ensure stronger visibility and immediate response to related complaints.

While acknowledging the legal and humanitarian considerations in addressing the situation, she stressed that harassment, theft, and any form of abuse toward residents and schoolchildren will not be tolerated.

“Iloilo City must remain safe for everyone, whether they are locals or visitors,” she said.

The move came after a concerned citizen shared on social media her encounters with alleged “Badjao” minors in downtown establishments and near schools.

She claimed her food was taken without consent inside a restaurant, and that her child and other students at a city high school were harassed and asked for money by the same group.

“Iloilo City used to be safe. What happened now?” she asked.