Strict rules on Internet shops sought

CEBU, Philippines - A homeowners association in Barangay Mohon, Talisay City wants the city government and the barangay officials to strictly enforce existing regulations on Internet shop operations because some children are hooked in online gaming and are no longer attending classes.

Candaya Urban Poor Homeowners Association Incorporated (CUPHAI) president Geoffrey H. Sinangote expressed apprehensions that if internet shops are not strictly monitored, children might totally lose their interest in school.

Sinangote said the residents are complaining of an internet shop, which is reportedly owned by a teacher in their area, because the computer shops are occupied by schoolchildren even after midnight.

The homeowners have signed a petition against the Internet shop before the barangay officials.

Sinangote said that students doing research and school work are only allowed entry in the Internet shop between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Sinangote said he already sought the assistance of the Local Housing Office (LHO), Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) and Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) about it.

The barangay officials of Mohon referred the complaint before the city legal office. The barangay is recommending the closure of the Internet shop citing lack of business permit. (FREEMAN)