Magalong orders crackdown on betel nut spitting, chewing

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — A crackdown has been ordered anew against irresponsible betel nut enthusiasts.

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong said barangay officials as well as cooperative or transport officials should help implement the ban against chewing and spitting of betel nut, locally known as nganga or momma, in public places in the city.

Magalong said it is ”disgusting” to see betel nut stains in parks and terminals and on the streets.

“The issue is not only cleanliness, but health, sanitation and hygiene... It could even spread virus,” he said.

A resolution recently passed by the city council calls on owners of bars and other entertainment establishments to regularly flush or wash off betel nut sputum and other unsanitary floor stains within their premises.

Magalong said an ordinance passed three years ago banning chewing and spitting of betel nut may be amended to impose stiffer penalties for violators.

Under the ordinance, violators face a fine of P500 or four hours of community service for the first offense and a fine of P1,000 or six hours of community service for the second offense.

It imposes a fine of P2,000, eight hours of community service or imprisonment of up to three months or both aside from suspension or revocation of business license on the third offense.