Juvenile delinquency rising in Iloilo City coastal barangays

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Juvenile delinquency – illegal or antisocial behavior committed by minors – is more prevalent in Iloilo City’s coastal barangays, according to Councilor Frances Grace Parcon-Torres.

Parcon-Torres said insights from a multi-agency coordination meeting held Tuesday, August 5, revealed that coastal communities, particularly in the districts of Molo and Arevalo, are frequently involved in riots, gang activity, and other disturbances.

The meeting was convened after two recent violent incidents involving minors – a stabbing at Jaro Plaza involving at least seven minors, and a brawl at the Iloilo Convention Center grounds over the weekend.

Parents and guardians of the minors involved were called in for guidance and intervention.

The Mental Health Office will also provide stress debriefing and counseling to those affected.

Parcon-Torres cited factors such as youthful relationships, unresolved teasing, and territorial disputes as common triggers for the violence.

In response to the growing number of incidents, she proposed the creation of a comprehensive juvenile intervention plan for Iloilo City.

She noted that while the City Social Welfare and Development Office already has programs addressing the issue, formal guidelines remain lacking.

“The purpose of this plan is how we can handle our minors involved in these incidents like stabbing and brawls in public places,” she said.

She emphasized that the approach should focus on intervention and rehabilitation—not punishment—to prevent repeat offenses.

Proposed interventions include counseling for minors and their families, spiritual formation, and participation in community service.

The CSWDO will serve as the lead implementing agency.

Finalizing the plan will involve close coordination with barangays and schools, which are often breeding grounds for gangs.

Parcon-Torres is aiming for the plan’s approval in the last quarter of this year.