Baguio: The city government of Baguio has taken a significant step in ensuring the strict enforcement of anti-obstruction, anti-smoking, and anti-littering ordinances by deputizing officials from all 128 barangays. Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized the importance of this move to bolster enforcement efforts and ensure that violators face appropriate penalties.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative aims to expand the role of barangay officials, who were previously deputized only for anti-smoking enforcement. Under Executive Order No. 112-2025, these officials are now authorized to conduct campaigns, apprehend violators, and issue citation tickets for violations related to the three ordinances. They have the authority to coordinate with city departments for the removal of illegally parked vehicles and other obstructions, such as junked items and construction materials.
Barangay officials can also order the removal of illegal structures, including stalls, sheds, billboards, fences, and garbage bins. Photos of illegally parked vehicles can be submitted to the Land Transportation Office to prevent the renewal of registrations until fines are paid. Penalties for violations range from PHP500 for first offenses to PHP5,000 for repeat offenders, with mandatory seminars for severe infractions.
The enforcement of Ordinance No. 34-2017 is a key focus, as it prohibits the use, sale, distribution, and advertising of cigarettes, vapes, electronic cigarettes, and other tobacco products in public places and transportation. Smoking is allowed only in designated areas that meet strict criteria. Violators, including establishments that permit smoking, face penalties, with the harshest being the revocation of business permits. Barangay officials are expected to lead by example in promoting smoke-free practices.
Additionally, officials are tasked with enforcing Ordinance No. 54-1988, which targets spitting, urinating, and improper disposal of waste in public spaces. Establishments must provide receptacles for waste, and regular inspections will ensure cleanliness. Littering violations, such as leaving trash outside scheduled collection times, carry penalties of up to PHP3,000 and community service for individuals, while businesses risk license revocation for serious infractions.
Mayor Magalong highlighted the necessity of this strengthened enforcement to instill discipline among residents and visitors and to mitigate the negative impacts of non-compliance.
