CAMIGUIN (PIA)--Emphasizing the provincial government's commitment to maintaining peace, order, and fair pricing for commodities in the province, Governor Xavier Jesus Romualdo presided over a joint meeting of various councils in the province at the New Capitol Building, Mambajao, here, September 20, 2023.
The meeting brought together key bodies, including the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC), Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC), Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), Provincial Task Force for COVID-19 (PTF-COVID-19), Provincial Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF ELCAC), Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC), Local Committee on Anti-Trafficking-Violence Against Women and Their Children (LCAT-VAWC), and Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC).
Romualdo stressed the importance of a free market but also stated that the provincial government would act swiftly in response to any reported distortions in commodity pricing, especially at gasoline stations. He added that acting on such is important since any change in the price of fuel could really affect the prices of other commodities.
He announced that a separate meeting with the Local Price Coordinating Council would be convened after the Lanzones Festival to address this matter further.
Peace and order efforts
Maintaining a drug-cleared status, Romualdo urged barangay and municipal officials to closely monitor the possible entry of drug dealers into their respective areas. With the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), he emphasized that the campaign against illegal drugs would be prioritized and discussed as soon as the new officials assume office.
He also commended ordinary citizens who take the initiative to report the presence of drug dealers and users in their communities, saying, "Magmonitor lang ta, bantayan lang nato, ipalisod gyud nato og pagsulod og drugs sa Camiguin [We have to monitor, watch over those who are dealing with illegal drugs. We have to make it difficult for them to bring drugs into Camiguin]."
Moreover, to bolster efforts to maintain peace and order, Romualdo addressed the activities of fraternity groups that expand their networks through illegal activities. He warned against their involvement in unlawful activities and stressed the need to contain such actions to prevent potential problems.
Romualdo also recognized the contributions of Representative Jurdin Jesus Romualdo in enhancing security measures in the province. This includes the acquisition of a sea vessel for sea patrol and emergency transportation, as well as the provision of equipment for disaster risk reduction and management.
In terms of crime statistics, the Philippine National Police (PNP)-Camiguin Provincial Office reported 37 crimes in the province from July 1 to September 10, 2023. Among these, six were index crimes, while 31 were non-index crimes. There was an increase in reported crimes compared to the same period in 2022, which recorded only 32 cases. Index crimes included homicide (1), physical injury (2), rape (2), and theft (1).
Additionally, PNP Camiguin confiscated 8.01 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride worth P54,388 during July and August 2023, underscoring their commitment to combating illegal drug activities.
The PNP also apprehended two individuals involved in illegal mining on July 4, further demonstrating their dedication to enforcing the law and safeguarding the province.
With these proactive measures and collaborative efforts, the Camiguin Provincial Government continues to work towards a peaceful, secure, and equitable future for its residents and visitors. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
