The Angeles City Government conducted a reach-out operation around SM City Clark and Walking Street in Barangay Balibago on June 29 as part of its campaign to protect at-risk youth and address substance abuse.

Authorities encountered 24 individuals, including 21 minors and three adults. Of the minors, six were rescued and brought to the Kanlungan ng Kabataan for assessment, intervention, and case management, while one adult was turned over to the Philippine National Police for appropriate legal action. Fifteen minors fled before they could be assisted.

An information and awareness session on Presidential Decree No. 1619, which penalizes the use, possession, and unauthorized sale of volatile substances to minors, was also conducted.

The operation was led by the City Social Welfare and Development Office in coordination with the Angeles City Tourist Information and Visitors Engagement (ACTIVE), the PNP Women and Children Protection Desk, and the City Mobile Force Company as part of the city’s continuing efforts under Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II to safeguard children and maintain a safe community.