The Baguio city legislative body, during the regular session on May 4, approved on third and final reading an ordinance mandating all people in the City of Baguio to strictly observe physical distancing until the COVID-19 threat is eliminated.
The measure authored and approved by all the city council members imposes physical distancing to all people in workplaces, business establishments, crowd-drawing events; in business operations or in any activity that entails queuing or formation of a line; and in public utility vehicles such as but not limited to public utility jeepneys, taxis, company shuttles, and transport network vehicles.
“Angkas” for motorcycle riders is also prohibited under the ordinance in compliance with the physical distancing policy.
Under the ordinance, non-compliant individuals shall be fined P500.00 for the first offense, P1,000.00 for the second offense, and P3,000.00 for the third offense.
The ordinance stipulates that it is the duty of PUV drivers/operators and persons in charge of government and private offices, workplaces, business operations, events and activities, to ensure that physical distancing is applied under their supervision. They are tasked to post signage in their establishments, offices, and vehicles notifying the public of the physical distancing policy and penalties of violations specified in the ordinance.
According to the ordinance, non-compliant persons in charge shall be fined P3,000.00 for the first offense, P4,000.00 for the second offense, and P5,000.00 and cancellation of business permit if applicable for the third offense.
Any government official or employee found to have violated any provision of the ordinance shall be meted administrative disciplinary action, without prejudice to the filing of the appropriate criminal or civil action pursuant to Article b of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Local Government Code of the Philippines.
The offices tasked to ensure successful enforcement of the ordinance are the City Health Services Office, the Baguio City Police Office, the Public Order and Safety Division, and the Permits and Licensing Division. Jordan G. Habbiling
