Makati govt meets with 212 gang leaders

Makati govt meets with 212 gang leaders


MANILA, Philippines - The Makati City government gathered some 212 leaders of gangs and fraternities in the city and had them commit to stop their gang wars.

An article on the Makati City portal said the meeting was held at the city hall to curb various juvenile-related violence in the city.

In the meeting, the out-of-school youths (OSYs), gangs and fraternities were clustered into six groups according to their needs so these could be addressed more effectively.

Youth organizations in six affluent villages were included to take part in the programs to share their inspiring stories to their contemporaries.

Departments and agencies comprising the Peace and Order Council (Makati POC) of the city attended the meeting, the article said.

Councilor Romulo Peña Jr. said the assembly intended to introduce to the target groups the city government’s plans and programs to help them become productive and responsible citizens.

For his part, Councilor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr. thanked the groups for “setting aside your own agendas to come together and talk peace.”

Also present was Metro Manila police chief Director Leopoldo Bataoil, who urged the participants to cooperate with the Makati police to achieve a peaceful and livable community.

Data from the Makati Police Department said there are some 76 out-of-school gangs and fraternities in the city.

Under the agreement, the city government through its Sangguniang Kabataan (Youth Council) and Liga ng mga Barangay (village leagues) will launch several activities, including sports competitions, get-together parties and out-of-town seminars to keep them from engaging in illegal vices.

The Makati Social Welfare Department will provide skills training until the OSY and fraternity members get the necessary experience needed to land a decent job.

Also on hand to assist the OSYs is the city’s Public Employment Service Office in looking for employment opportunities.

For its part, the Department of Education–Makati would offer ladderized education to those who want to pursue their education and achieve a better future.

The Department of Environmental Services also urged the youths to take part in Makati’s campaign against global warming.

It would tap them for some tree planting activities starting next month.