Instead of arming anti-crime groups, Quezon City Councilor Karl Castelo is urging the government to rollout free or affordable education and decent employment programs.
Castelo, councilor of the city’s fifth district said employment and learning are proven effective against poverty which is the root cause of many crimes in the country.
He said poor Filipinos should be given opportunities that can improve their sad plight.
“What do most people say when they are caught for stealing, robbing and other usual crimes? Nagawa ko po ang krimen kasi walang makain ang pamilya ko. Nagnakaw po ako kasi wala po akong pambayad ng matrikula. May sakit po ang anak ko. Isn’t that poverty?” Castelo said.
Castelo made the remarks amid the plan of President Rodrigo Duterte to arm civilian anti-crime groups to assist the police in dealing with criminal activities.
The plan however met strong opposition from human rights groups claiming it is open to abuse.
Castelo, a top advocate for educational scholarships and free livelihood training in Novaliches, gained popularity for his ‘life-changing’ projects in District 5.
District 5 is home to many underprivileged communities where Castelo introduced programs on housing, water and power connections, livelihood and education, the benefits of which can last a lifetime. Thus, the slogan “Kay Karl May forever.’
He said poor Filipinos should be given opportunities that can improve their sad plight.
“Guns won’t help them but education, skills and livelihood will. They bring limitless opportunities when they are put into good use –whether in livelihood or profession. With them, the potential for a better future is boundless,” he said.
