The Cebu City Council has approved an ordinance penalizing those who obstruct the sidewalks, alleys and pathways of public parks and spaces.
On Tuesday, Councilor Rey Gealon said the ordinance aims to clear these areas so as not to impede the flow of foot traffic or the mobility of pedestrians.
Gealon, author of the ordinance, said that some of the obstructed areas are the following: N. Bacalso Avenue, P. Del Rosario Street, Gorordo Avenue, Gen. Maxilom Avenue, Escario Street, D. Jakosalem Street, Colon Street, Manalili Street and Sanciangko Street. (https://tinyurl.com/5hdj4e8e)
The ordinance defines obstructions as “any structure, whether permanent or temporary, immovable or movable, erected along, standing on, adjoining, or in any manner impeding safe and convenient passage through any public road or sidewalk; the conduct of business by sidewalk vendors; and any belonging or thing found therein.”
It prohibits the “conduct any kind of job or occupation along sidewalks, alleys, pathways, parks and public places impeding traffic or mobility of pedestrians;” and “conduct any kind of job or occupation along sidewalks, alleys, pathways, parks and public places impeding traffic or mobility of pedestrians.”
Penalties for violators would be a written warning for the first offense, a fine of P3,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than 30 days for the second offense, and P5,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than one year at the discretion of the court and revocation of business permit if the violator is a business operator.