Regulation of outreach programs in province for security reasons

CEBU, Philippines – If the proposed ordinance will get the approval of the Provincial Board, groups or teams can no longer conduct outreach programs or medical missions without first securing a permit from the provincial government.

This after PB member Wilfredo Caminero sought to regulate outreach programs or medical missions in the province of Cebu for security reasons.

In a proposed ordinance, Caminero, who chairs the committee on public safety and peace and order in the Board, revealed that there were instances when outreach programs were used to cover up illegal activities.

“There is a need to regulate outreach programs, medical missions and similar activities to prevent the use of such as fronts for illegal acts…and to secure the persons of those conducting such activities,” Caminero said.

Under the ordinance, any group or team planning to conduct outreach programs, medical missions and other activities will now secure first a permit from the Office of the Governor before carrying out any activity.

Caminero also said that the Office of the Governor will require information from the applicant as it may need to assess “fitness or worthiness” of the applicant to carry out such activities. — Garry B. Lao/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)