Council: Light outside stores must be put on at night

CEBU, Philippines - The City Council yesterday approved an ordinance requiring business and commercial establishments situated in the city’s central business district to keep a light outside the stores throughout the night.

The ordinance, sponsored by Councilor Roberto Abellanosa, argues that while the local government unit is primarily responsible of maintaining peace and order and security, business establishments also have a social duty to provide ample lightings in their businesses and structures throughout the night to prevent criminals from perpetrating illegal activities.

The ordinance was approved after thorough deliberation by the Council, especially on the kind of penalty and who should be penalized.

Councilor Augustus Pe Jr. said the proposed penalty of fine - P2,000 for first offense and P5,000 for second and third offenses – are stiff, considering that there many small and medium business establishments that cannot afford to shell out thousands.

Aside from the fines, it was also proposed that the violator may be imprisoned from six months to one year.

In the end, the Councilors agreed to impose administrative penalties - warnings or notices for first and second offenses and, finally, revocation of the business permit. The barangay is also tasked to monitor the implementation of the ordinance. — Ferliza C. Contratista/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)