“Have you ever walked past a street gathering late at night and felt uneasy?” That is exactly what the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) wants to prevent. Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla has issued a warning: stricter curfew rules for minors and new regulations banning street drinking and public rowdiness. The goal is simple—safer streets for everyone. Although there are policies regarding these warnings, the press conference by Jesus Crispin Remulla underscores the government’s seriousness about making communities safer, especially at night. As an ordinary citizen, what can you do to help achieve a safer community? You should always follow the law, obey the orders of duly authorized law enforcement personnel, and report any violations you observe.
Starting now, anyone under 18 must be home by 10 PM unless they can prove they are working or studying. Drinking in public spaces is strictly prohibited. Tables, chairs, and street gatherings for drinking are no longer allowed. According to Secretary Remulla, “Number one, the fights start there. Number two, sexual harassment.” The message is clear: enjoy responsibly, but stay safe and keep public spaces orderly.
Stricter Curfew for Minors
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has announced an enhanced curfew for minors 18 years old and below. All minors are now required to be home by 10 PM. This rule applies to every public street and space. The new curfew aims to keep streets safe, prevent accidents, and reduce incidents of fights and harassment among minors. Parents and guardians are urged to ensure compliance.
There are exceptions. Minors who can provide proof of employment or education may stay out later if necessary. Otherwise, violators will be asked to return home immediately and may face apprehension by authorities. Sec. Remulla said “Meron na tayong enhanced curfew ordinances para sa mga 18 years old and below. Pag hindi kayo nagaano, hindi kayo nagtatrabaho, proof of employment, of proof of education. Kung nagaano kayo sa oras na iyon, pauwi kayo.”
Keeping Public Spaces Safe and Respectful
The DILG has issued new rules to make streets safer and more orderly. Drinking in public spaces is now strictly prohibited. Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla explained that public drinking often leads to fights and harassment, saying that setting up chairs and tables for drinking in the streets “doon na nagagaling, number one, ang away, number two, ang sexual harassment.” Authorities will apprehend anyone caught drinking in public, and large gatherings in streets or other public areas are also considered violations.
Public civility is another key focus of these regulations. Men are now required to wear shirts when walking in public, regardless of the heat. Secretary Remulla emphasized that this is an act of civility, noting: “Pangatlo, bawal na ang walang t-shirt na lalaki. Ano man, babae, diba? Pero walang t-shirt na lalaki na palakad-lakad sa kalye. Bawal na. It is an act of civility na magbihis naman kayo habang nasa kalye kayo.” By following simple dress codes, everyone helps maintain order and safer streets for all.
Noise in public spaces is also restricted. Loud singing or bidioke past 8 PM is no longer allowed, as it disturbs neighbors and disrupts peace. The Secretary reminded the public to be considerate: “Pangatapat, bawal na po ang bidioke lagpas ng alas gis. Alam kong lahat ng Pilipino ay mahilig kumanta… Pero maawa naman kayo sa kapwa ninyo at ayaw ninyong matulog.” These rules together aim to protect the community, encourage respectful behavior, and ensure that public spaces remain safe and peaceful for everyone.
Fines and Penalties for Violators
Under the Revised Penal Code (Act No. 3815), acts that disturb public peace or cause “alarms and scandals” can be punished. This includes loud noise, rowdiness, or public intoxication when it escalates. Minor disturbances may result in arresto menor (up to one month) or a fine, while more serious disruptions can lead to arresto mayor or higher fines depending on the situation.
Local governments also create curfew and public behavior rules under the Local Government Code (RA 7160). Cities and municipalities set penalties such as fines, community service, or educational seminars. For minors, authorities usually issue warnings or return the child to parental custody instead of imposing fines or imprisonment.
This is reinforced by the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (RA 9344). Minors cannot be punished with fines or jail for curfew violations or light ordinance offenses. First-time violators are typically counseled or referred to social welfare rather than penalized. Some cities may require parents to attend seminars if a minor repeatedly violates curfew, but the child itself remains protected.
Because there is no nationwide law for street drinking, most penalties come from local ordinances. Common measures include fines, community service, and counseling. The goal is to maintain public order while protecting minors. Following these rules ensures safer streets and encourages responsible behavior in the community.