A good move
THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has called for the recruitment of women as “barangay tanod.”
Described by many as “timely,” the call is embodied in DILG Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr’s Memorandum-Circular 2024-086.
Abalos’ issuance of the memorandum-circular last June 26 drew cheers and praises from various quarters, including women’s groups.
Party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan said the presence of “female tanod” makes villages more effective in handling cases involving women and children.
Congressman Yamsuan said the appointment of female public safety officers “promotes gender equality and women empowerment.”
Of course, we also share the party-list lawmaker’s view that women are as capable as men in keeping peace and order in the community.
And note that women now hold high positions in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Even the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) are also teeming with female personnel.
“Kung puwede nga silang mag-sundalo o mag-pulis eh di lalong okay kung may mga barangay tanod tayong mga babae,” said a village chair.
Certainly, the DILG secretary’s “bold move” deserves the support of the country’s local government officials and the rest of the Filipino people.
