V3I5P84

SAFEKEEPING HOURS FOR MINORS (CITY ORDINANCE NO. 18, S. 2017) AND JUVENILE CRIME RATES IN HIGHLY URBANIZED AREA: BASIS FOR POLICY REVISITING

Jennylen L. Longaket, RSW^1*, Adonis S. Besa, PhD²

Abstract

In many highly urbanized areas of the Philippines, the safety and well-being of minors have become an increasing concern as cases of juvenile involvement in risky behaviors continue to rise. To address this, local governments have introduced safekeeping hours (Curfew ordinances) to protect children from potential harm during late hours. These initiatives aim not only to maintain peace and order but also to guide the youth toward responsible behavior and community awareness. Despite these ordinances, challenges remain in implementation, monitoring, and community compliance. It is therefore important to understand how these safekeeping hours are enforced and how they affect minors, families, and the broader community in highly urbanized settings such as General Santos City. This study revisits the implementation and impact of the safekeeping hours policy for minors in General Santos City, a measure designed to ensure the safety and welfare of children by restricting their presence in public spaces during designated hours. The policy, which aligns with curfew regulations under the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act (Republic Act 9344), aims to reduce risks, including exposure to criminal activity, exploitation, and unsafe environments. The research examines the policy’s relevance, effectiveness, and alignment with the current socio-economic and cultural landscape of General Santos City. It explores the perspectives of various stakeholders, including government agencies, law enforcement, non-governmental organizations, parents, and minors, to evaluate its implementation. It investigated the policy’s impact on reducing juvenile delinquency and enhancing child protection while addressing concerns such as potential human rights violations and the stigmatization of street children. Recommendations include revising the policy to emphasize a more child-centered approach, integrating community-based interventions such as education and psychosocial support, and strengthening partnerships with local stakeholders. This policy review aims to ensure that safekeeping measures are inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the rights and needs of minors, while fostering safer, more supportive environments in General Santos City.

Keywords:

Safekeeping Hours, Curfew Ordinance, Minors, Juvenile Delinquency, Child Protection, Policy Revisiting, Juvenile Justice Welfare Act, Republic Act 9344, Highly Urbanized Area, General Santos City, Policy Implementation, Community Compliance, Child Welfare, Youth Protection, Psychosocial Support, Community-Based Intervention, Human Rights, Street Children, Law Enforcement, Child-Centered Approach.