Stores in city have to light sidewalks

CEBU, Philippines - Mayor Tomas Osmeña has approved an ordinance that would compel business owners in the city to light the sidewalk outside their establishments.

The ordinance, sponsored by Councilor Rodrigo Abellanosa, will take effect 15 days after its publication in major newspapers.

Business owners that would violate the ordinance will be fined a minimum of P2,000 and a maximum of P5,000 or may face imprisonment from six months to one year or both at the discretion of the court.

Abellanosa reasoned that sidewalks in central business areas have become favorite spots for criminal activities because they are not well lighted at night. He explained that even if the city puts up more street lights, streetlights still could not light the entire stretch of a sidewalk.

Abellanosa said compelling business owners to light their premises at night would help lessen crimes, something that City Police Director Patrocinio Comendador agrees to. Comendador said lighted sidewalks help discourage criminal elements from engaging in illegal activities.

Vice Mayor Michael Rama himself supports the ordinance, saying some areas in the city’s central business district have become too risky to walk in at night because of unlighted sidewalks. He said he even discourages children from walking in these areas alone at night.

Even with the ordinance, some city officials contended that crimes are still being committed even in well-lighted sidewalks. – Rene U. Borromeo/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)