SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union – Ilocos Region underscored the pivotal role of youth in crime prevention during the 30th National Crime Prevention Week (NCPW) celebration from September 2 to 6.
Led by the National Police Commission, the week-long event focused on empowering young people to become active participants in building safer communities.
Under the theme “Kabataan tara na, sa crime prevention kaisa ka” (Youth, let’s unite for crime prevention), the celebration kicked off with a ceremony at the PRO-1 Auditorium in Barangay Parian on September 2.
Participants from government agencies, community organizations, and law enforcement signed a pledge of commitment to addressing crime-related issues in the region.
Guest speaker Ilocos Regional Prosecutor Atty. Christian Paul Ulpindo emphasized the importance of collaboration and youth involvement in crime prevention.
“Our youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the contributors and collaborators of today,” he said.
He said, “It is our collective responsibility to support and encourage their active participation in creating a safer society.”
“The burden and responsibility of fighting and preventing crime do not solely rest on our law enforcers. It is a collective responsibility that belongs to every member of our society,” he added.
NAPOLCOM Region 1 assistant regional director, Atty. Allan Ancheta echoed Ulpindo’s sentiments during a recent episode of “Kapihan sa Ilocos.”
He explained that focusing on youth is crucial in nurturing them as future leaders and promoting a culture of peace and safety.
The NCPW celebration included a variety of activities, such as a zumba session, a thanksgiving mass, an inter-agency information booth, free legal services, and workshops on student crime prevention committees.
The event also featured a gift-giving activity, medical and dental missions, and seminars on the Prosecution Law Enforcement and Community Coordinating System (PROLECCS).
By engaging youth in crime prevention efforts, Ilocos Region aims to foster a more secure and resilient community for generations to come. By Rocky E. Bautista
