Days after two minors were shot dead inside an internet café, the local government of Samal Island imposed a curfew on minors from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following day.

In an executive order issued on Thursday, June 27, 2024, those below 18 years old are prohibited from loitering outside during curfew hours.

Minors will be allowed to go out if they are accompanied by parents or guardians or when they figure in emergency situations or unforeseen circumstances like disasters, accidents, and the likes.

Those returning home late due to work and classes or will attend religious or civic activities supervised by adults will be allowed. However, minors shall go home straight afterwards.

Police and barangay officials are directed to implement the order. Parents are urged to help ensure their children are already home before curfew hours.

The local government said the curfew is put in place to ensure the safety of all minors from accidents and other untoward incidents that happen at night.

On June 23, 2024, two minors were shot dead inside an internet café in Barangay Camudmud, Babak District. 

Police said the victims, alias “Mark”, 14 and alias “John,” 16, were rushed to the hospital but were declared dead on arrival. The suspects fled on board a motorcycle immediately after shooting the victims.

Investigation into that incident continues, as of this writing.