Mabatid pushes for free hygiene kits

CEBU, Philippines —  Cebu City Councilor Prisca Niña Mabatid has proposed an ordinance providing for a mandatory supply of hygiene materials in workplaces in the city to curb the spread of COVID-19.

The proposed measure --“COVID-19 Containment Measures in the Workplace Ordinance of 2021”-- was referred to the committee on laws, ordinances, and styling for review.

It states that concrete and proactive steps must be undertaken to prevent, contain, and restrict the possibility of spreading the virus within the city.

“The primary objective of this Ordinance is to prevent, abate, or mitigate the spread of COVID-19 by compelling employers to provide hygiene materials for the protection of their workers,” Section 3 of the proposed ordinance provides.

Section 5 also requires employers to provide their employees with hygiene materials such as masks, especially to those exhibiting symptoms of cough and cold; alcohol or hand sanitizers which should be present in every desk and in common areas like canteens, reception area, etc.; soap or hand wash; and cleaning products.

The proposed measure shall apply to all private workplaces, establishments, and buildings within the territorial jurisdiction of the city.

“This Ordinance shall be implemented from the day of its effectivity until declaration by the Department of Health to the effect that there is no longer an imminent threat of COVID-19 in the country and with an enabling ordinance approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod,” Section 7 states.

Section 8 provides that any person, firm, or corporation found in violation of any provisions of the ordinance shall be penalized with a fine of not less than P5,000 and with the non-renewal of business permit for the next succeeding year.

Earlier, Mayor Edgardo Labella issued Executive Order No. 52 requiring private establishments to ensure that hand sanitizers, soaps, and alcohol are available amid the ongoing pandemic. — FPL  (FREEMAN)