City rules in Metro Manila that you may not be familiar with
When living in Manila, one of the top priorities you must know are its rules. You need to be informed what is allowed and what is not, especially in a foreign country like the Philippines. Aside from the laws, which are followed by the whole country, there are specific rules you need to abide by to maintain a safe and peaceful community. These specific rules, which are made by a city or local government, are called “ordinances.” To help you out, we have listed some of the ordinances you need to follow and also find uniquely interesting as foreigners here in Metro Manila:
1. Mandaluyong’s ‘Riding in Tandem’ Ordinance
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In Mandaluyong City, they have an Ordinance No. 550 which prohibits “two males who are not first-degree relatives from riding motorcycle in the city.” This controversial policy was made to reduce crimes committed by criminals (called “riding in tandem”) in motorcycles. Only spouses, parents, and siblings are exempted from this ordinance. Riders should bring proof (ID, certifications, etc.) when doing so. Offenders can be fined P1,000, and up to 3 months of jail term for four-time offenders.
2. Quezon City’s Catcalling/Street-level sexual harassment Ordinance
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Quezon City is the first city to impose fines on street-level harassment through a “Gender and Development Ordinance.” This ordinance will impose fines on those who will be harassing women in public, such as catcalling (a loud whistle or a comment of a sexual nature), stalking, or lascivious gestures (winking, groping, and touching women). Also, women may file their complaints in any police station in QC if they experience such acts.
3. Makati City’s Noise Ordinance
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In an effort to minimize noise pollution, Ordinance 2011-019 was made by the Makati City Council to regulate the use of videokes, karaokes, and other amplified audio device within presidential and public streets in Makati. Any “excessive, unnecessary, or unusually loud sound from the said audio devices which annoys, disturbs, injures, or endangers the comfort and safety of people” shall be unlawful. A fine of P1,000 or not more than six months of imprisonment may be met when violated. However, one can still operate these audio systems as long as it is within “acceptable” volume limits from Monday to Sunday until 12 midnight with proper permits.
4. Parañaque City’s “No drinking of liquor in streets” ordinance
In Parañaque, there is an ordinance that prohibits anyone caught drinking intoxicating beverages in the streets and merrymaking. Drinking of liquor is banned in public places such as streets, sports complex, parks, churches, and school yards. Also, it is important to secure a barangay permit when wanting to use amplified sound systems in merrymaking. A fine of less than P500 to one-month imprisonment may be met if the ordinance is violated.
5. Paranaque City’s “Strict Non-smoking” Ordinance
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Yet another strict ordinance was made by Parañaque when it comes to Smoking in the city. City Ordinance No. 10-09 or the “Anti-Smoking City Ordinance” strictly prohibits smoking in public spaces such as in stores, theaters, public comfort rooms, schools, public and private hospitals, recreation areas, and nursing homes. Should establishments want to put up smoking areas, they must secure permits as they may be fined and apprehended.
6. Marikina City’s “Dress Code in Public Spaces” Ordinance
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Ordinance 72 S-2005 of Marikina City is being followed which speaks of Dress Codes. In this ordinance, men are required to wear T-shirt and pants or knee-length walking shorts, and for women, T-shirt of sleeve blouse, and skirt or knee-length walking shorts or any women clothes/dress and also apron for both. Those who will not follow will be fined P500 or one day community service.
7. Manila’s Curfew Ordinance
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Several cities in Manila, including Quezon City and Mandaluyong have already implemented curfew on minors from 10:00 pm to 5:00 am. With the newly elected President Duterte’s administration, it is expected that he will impose this curfew nationwide as part of his plans. This ordinance may penalize the parent or guardian of the curfew violator with a fine of P2,000 or a 48-hour community service.
8. Quezon City’s LGBT Anti-discrimination Ordinance
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Yet another progressive ordinance was made by Quezon City as they are implementing an ordinance which bans discrimination, especially in employment, against LGBT (Lesbian, Gays, Bisexuals, and Transgenders) individuals. This ordinance also provides venues to educate employers and educators on the rights of LGBT people.
Do you know some other ordinances being implemented in your cities? Comment below!
Source: Interaksyon, ABS-CBN News, GMA Network, Inquirer, Makati.gov.ph, Philippine Star, Paranaque.gov.ph, Marikina Public Market website, Manila Coconuts, GMA Network
