Carillo to launch info drive vs mendicancy

City Councilor Gerardo Carillo, action officer of the anti-mendicancy board, plans to launch a public awareness campaign against mendicancy.

Carillo wants to strengthen the information campaign on the anti-mendicancy ordinance by implementing an ordinance that will encourage posting a copy of the ordinance in establishments.

Carillo will propose that all owners, proprietors, managers, and administrators of all business establishments display within public view posters, stickers, and other related notices about the anti-mendicancy ordinance.

Carillo said that despite the stringent efforts of the anti-mendicancy special task force, a number of mendicants still roam in the streets becoming a nuisance to motorists.

"Aside from the continued presence of mendicants in the streets, the public are also still unaware of the anti-mendicancy ordinance as they tolerate such practice in giving money to the mendicants," Carillo said.

The proposed measure also indicates that if business establishments failed to comply, a fine of not less than P2,000 but not more than P5,000 or suffer imprisonment of not less than six months but not more than one-year or both fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court would be imposed.

In addition to the penalties, Carillo said a possible cancellation or revocation of the business permit or permit to operate or any privileges will also be carried out.

The Anti-Mendicancy Ordinance No. 1631 entitles, "An act prohibiting and penalizing the giving and soliciting by mendicants of cash or any material good in public places, buildings and offices as well as in any business or commercial establishments."

A fine of P1,000 would be charged a person who gives cash or any kind of material good to mendicants. - Garry B. Lao