CAGAYAN de Oro City Councilors have recently approved the city’s Public Order and Public Safety (Pops) Plan containing recommendations for the executive department to review its internal security plan to ensure peace, order, and safety of the people, among others.
City Councilor Romeo Calizo claimed that the city still has the lowest number of crime-related incidents compared to other highly-urbanized cities in the country. This claim, however, could not be independently corroborated.
Like Calizo during the said session, Councilor Yvy Emano also strongly recommended revisiting the city's internal security plan to ensure peace, order, and the safety of the people and residents, especially during significant annual festivities.
Emano noticed the need for authorities to enhance intelligence gathering to prevent criminal activities in the city, such as the recent kidnapping incident on August 2, 2023, in the city center and the fatal shooting in Upper Puerto.
Typically, security plans are created for specific events or activities, such as the launching of the Higalaay Festival.
Despite receiving relatively short notice, Calizo emphasized that this should not hinder the city's ability to plan effectively.
According to Calizo, addressing this challenge requires the executive department to prepare a security plan not only for the residents but also for visitors to the city.
“It is important to promote Cagayan de Oro as a safe destination for tourists and ensure that their presence is welcome,” said Calizo.
Calizo emphasized the need for a well-thought-out and appropriate plan to achieve this.
In preparation for the upcoming civic-military parade, Calizo reiterated his request for the Committee on Higalaay Festival to designate an overall security overseer.
He clarified that this is different from the City Council Committee on Public Order and Safety and emphasized the importance of appointing someone responsible for security during the City Fiesta.
“It is crucial to address this matter promptly and establish a security committee to ensure a safe celebration,” said Calizo.
Calizo also stressed the significance of coordinating efforts to sell Cagayan de Oro as a safe and welcoming destination.
Discouraging visitors from coming due to concerns about safety could negatively impact the city’s reputation and tourism industry.
It is therefore essential to formulate an appropriate security plan and work together to create a favorable environment for both residents and visitors.
Emano calls for a review of the city’s internal security plan was the essence of her special report, which was led by Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez.
She reiterated the need for authorities to enhance intelligence gathering to prevent criminal activities in the city such as the recent kidnapping incident on August 2, 2023, in the city center and the fatal shooting in Upper Puerto.
Emano expressed optimism that strengthening intelligence-gathering efforts would greatly contribute to the safety and security of the city’s residents.
Emano’s information was forwarded by Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez to the Committee on Public Order and Safety, chaired by Councilor Romeo Calizo, for appropriate action and recommendations.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Rodriguez expressed her unwavering faith in Cagayan de Oro City’s tranquil environment amidst recent reports by Councilor Emano regarding certain crime incidents.
Rodriguez emphasized her continuous assurance to foreign visitors who frequent the city, highlighting its peaceful reputation.
She conveyed his efforts to bolster the city’s economy and ensure daily sustenance for Kagay-anons.
Showing gratitude for the unwavering support of business owners in providing employment opportunities and daily meals for their employees, Rodriguez acknowledged their vital role in contributing to the government's efforts.
She stated that such incidents were isolated and did not reflect the overall state of peace and security in the city.
As the vice-chair of the Peace and Order Security Council, Rodriguez also reiterated their consistent planning to address and maintain peace.
“While incidents may arise consecutively, it is crucial to implement additional measures in collaboration with the police force to ensure the city’s peace and stability,” Rodriguez said.
