Sagay boosts street security after student harassment reports

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva said the Sagay City government in Negros Occidental will prioritize the installation of closed-circuit television cameras on streets following recent reports of sexual harassment involving students near the State University of Northern Negros area.

Cueva said the information was formally relayed to him by the SUNN administration, led by Dr. Renante Egcas, on Tuesday for immediate action.

The mayor cited an initial investigation showing that some of those allegedly involved were drivers believed to be colorum, or unregistered, operators, making them harder to trace.

He said he called a meeting with the Peace and Order Committee, led by Councilor Sherwin Sy, and tricycle operators and drivers’ associations to address the concern and ensure the safety of students.

Cueva said CCTV cameras will be installed from the streets near SUNN to terminals and other crucial areas.

Additional streetlights from SUNN going to Kauswagan will also be installed for the safety of students.

“This is also a strong reminder to drivers and operators that we should not allow any form of harassment or harassment to our students,” Cueva said in a statement.

Any perpetrator proven to be involved in these incidents will be dealt with to the full extent of the law, he warned.

He also encouraged students to stay alert and cautious and to travel in groups if possible.

Before riding a tricycle, students were advised to take a photo of the franchise or body number, or the driver’s ID, and send it to family members or friends.

Cueva also encouraged the riding public to use only franchised tricycles for easier identification and monitoring and to avoid isolated areas when possible.

Meanwhile, SUNN expressed its gratitude to Cueva, the police, the Peace and Order Committee, and all concerned stakeholders for their immediate response and continued coordination in addressing reports involving the safety of students near the university area.

The university said it remains committed to working closely with local authorities and the community to help ensure a safe and secure environment for all learners.

Students were likewise encouraged to remain vigilant, prioritize their safety, and immediately report any suspicious incidents or behavior to proper authorities.