The peaceful towns of Baras in Rizal province has been marred by an unfortunate incident that has deeply troubled many concerned citizens and motorists.
It's high time for the authorities, particularly PMAJ Junard Briones, chief of police of Baras, and the office of Baras Municipal Mayor Wilfredo "Willy" Robles, to sit up, take notice, and take action to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.
Captured on video
The act of vandalism in March was captured on video , and photos were posted and shared on social media. A long-haired woman used spray paint and vandalized while the group laughed.
The video and photos are from a member of the motorcycle group and were taken directly from the Instagram account of the group going around the area to vandalize.
According to the group, there have been accidents in that area because the "Falling Rocks" warning can no longer be read, especially at night. Apart from motorbikes, private cars also frequent this area.
The "Falling Rocks" sign is not just a piece of property; it serves as a warning to motorists about potential hazards on the road. Vandalizing such a sign is an act of vandalism and a reckless endangerment of lives.
Safety compromised
Safety of fellow citizens and those passing through Baras should be paramount.
According to the motorcycle group members, they saw on the Instagram post of "Joyce Ignacio" the group was bragging about the vandalism done in that area. The groups that do illegal things in different cities will be held accountable and fined.
According to the riders, in April 2023, there was a corresponding complaint in Antipolo for the vandal group, which is the same group that commits vandalism in various places in Metro Manila, such as Quezon City, Pasig City, and Escolta, Manila.
There is a penalty for vandalism and destruction of government properties (House Bill 2090): a fine of up to P300,000 and 12 to 15 years in prison.
Breed of lawlessness
It's disheartening to think that a small group of individuals can disrupt the harmony and safety of our community with apparent impunity.
The lack of accountability and responsibility for such actions can breed a sense of lawlessness and encourage others to follow suit. This incident serves as a wake-up call for us all.
“We urge PMAJ Junard Briones, Chief of Police of Baras, and Mayor Wilfredo 'Willy' Robles to take immediate and decisive action to address this issue. It's essential to bring those responsible for the vandalism to justice and to send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated in our town. Enhanced patrolling and surveillance in vulnerable areas should be considered to deter potential vandals and troublemakers,” CBR 150R.NCR.BROTHERHOOD.PHL said in their post.
The riders are asking for help to find the vandal group to be held accountable to the law, especially for the damage and people injured due to vandalism. The rider group can be called and messaged to the FB page CBR 150R.NCR.BROTHERHOOD.PHL.
As responsible citizens, we must remind ourselves that we play a vital role in maintaining the peace and security of our beloved Baras.
Let's stand together in condemning vandalism and any actions that put our community at risk. It's time for effort, accountability, and a renewed commitment to safeguarding the well-being of our town and its residents.
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