• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Bacolod City government launched a major campaign against aggressive mendicancy, rescuing a total of 19 individuals, including Badjao adults and children, minors at risk, and other vulnerable persons.
The action directly addresses increasing reports of harassment, coercion, and abuse against residents, particularly women, allegedly committed by some mendicants.
The operation was conducted by two newly activated Surveillance and Apprehension Teams, which are composed of personnel from the Department of Social Services and Development, the Bacolod City Police Office, and the City Legal Office (CLO).
The teams focused on apprehending individuals involved in harassment, coercion, and abuse, as well as the rescue of “children at risk” and minor mendicants.
The initial sweep resulted in the rescue of 19 individuals: 7 adults and 2 children from Badjao Community, 7 minors classified as children at risk, 2 elderly Persons with Disabilities, and 1 individual showing signs of mental health issues.
They were found at Bacolod Public Plaza and near the Bacolod Real Estate Development Corporation seaport area.
Authorities reported that minors and vulnerable individuals received appropriate interventions such as profiling, assessment, and orientation before the minors were returned to their families, while others were given temporary shelter along with basic necessities.
“The moment you lay a hand or threat on our people, especially women, you are no longer a mendicant, you are an offender, and this city will deal with you as such,” Mayor Greg Gasataya said in a statement.
The City Legal Office is offering free legal assistance to all residents who wish to file formal complaints or cases against mendicants involved in harassment or abuse.
The mayor stated that a reunification program will be implemented to facilitate the return of mendicants, particularly those engaged in abusive behavior, to their provinces of origin.
According to the city government, the Badjao community claim that they were from Jolo, Sulu; Oton, Iloilo; and Zamboanga del Sur, however, they failed to provide valid identification or even recall their children’s birth dates.
Gasataya said the measure is aligned with Bacolod City Ordinance No. 146 (1995), which penalizes repeat mendicancy and exploitation while providing for rehabilitation programs.
Authorities urged all victims and complainants not to be afraid to come forward, assuring them of protection and support.*
