CAGAYAN de Oro City Hall’s social workers and police personnel reached out to 35 minors and five homeless persons in a synchronized Peace and Order operation held last Saturday, May 23.

 

The multi-agency reach-out operation was led by City Social Welfare and Development- Oro Response and Processing Center (ORPC) manager Cherikhawa Paña, alongside the on-duty Response Team and ORPC staff in coordination with the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office, its Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD).

 

Authorities said the majority of the minors were caught for curfew violations. However, a few were discovered engaging in substance abuse, specifically inhaling volatile substances like rugby.

 

Following the operation, 24 of the rescued minors were temporarily transferred to a secure holding area for safekeeping.

 

Their cases are being endorsed to their respective district offices who will handle ongoing case management and follow-up interventions.

 

The remaining 16 persons were successfully reintegrated to their families, though authorities ensured strict protocols were followed before their release.

 

Parents and guardians were required to attend case conferences outlining the provisions of the Parental Responsibility Code.

 

Officials also issued notices of violation and secured agreements from the parents to strengthen accountability and guarantee the ongoing protection and welfare of the children.

 

The reach-out operation aims to ensure public safety and protect children in street situations (CiSS), mendicants and homeless people. (NLB/CIO/photos by Reynan Baylin/CIO)