Camiguin town issues warning on gang activity, stresses protection for minors

TheMonitorMindanaoToday.com | Camiguin town issues warning on gang activity, stresses protection for minors

By: Henniequel Shayne G. Acobo

MAMBAJAO, Camiguin —Authorities in Mambajao issued a warning regarding gang activity, clarifying that forming a group is not punishable by law, but the group’s purpose and actions may be subject to legal consequences. They also stressed that minors involved are protected under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act.

“Ang bawal ani karon is kung unsa ang tumong ug tinguha ana nga grupo (what is prohibited now is the purpose and intention of that group),” said Deputy Provincial Prosecutor Fiscal Lester Labiano, emphasizing that forming a gang alone is not a crime. 

Labiano pointed out that minors involved remain covered by legal protections. “Maski pag sal-an sila, kung less than eighteen years old sila, musulod gyapon ang Republic Act 9344,” he said, referring to the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act.

(Even if they commit a violation, as long as they are below 18 years old, Republic Act 9344 still applies.)

Under this law, children in conflict with the law receive assistance from social welfare units for rehabilitation, aimed at promoting moral and social responsibility.

Although not directly linked to gangs, a recurring concern in the area is the “pambato” — the act of throwing rocks at people in public or private spaces.

Labiano outlined possible penalties based on the consequences of such acts. If the incident results in death, charges may range from homicide to murder, with imprisonment terms from 20 to 40 years.

If the act causes injuries without resulting in death, penalties may include imprisonment ranging from one to 30 days for slight or less serious physical injuries. Property damage may lead to charges of malicious mischief.

He also clarified procedures for law enforcement. Police may conduct hot pursuit to apprehend suspects or, if suspects evade capture, file charges through investigation.

“Magamay man ang injury, magamay man ang damage, mamatay or dili, pwede jud na sila dakpon,” he said.

(Whether the injury or damage is minor or whether it results in death or not, they can still be arrested.) 

To ensure safety during the festivities, authorities are also appealing for stronger cooperation at the barangay level. “Siguro ga-roving na sila [police], pero basin kailangan pud sila ug tabang sa community,” Labiano said.

(They may already be roving, but they might also need help from the community.)

With the Mambajao fiesta and Lanzones Festival approaching, the local government expressed hope that residents and visitors can participate in the events without disruptions or safety concerns. (HSGA/PIA-10/Camiguin)

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