The City Government of Navotas has passed three ordinances imposing stricter safety measures to help curb the surge of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.
City Ordinance No. 2021-19 states that a fine of P5,000 will be charged to violators of the 10PM–5AM curfew hours, mandatory wearing of facemask, and 24-hour curfew for minors who are unable to present valid government identification (ID) cards.
The ordinance was passed following reports that violators gave falsified information to barangay enforcers, which prevented them from being line-listed for free, mandatory swab test.
Navotas recently ruled that violators of safety protocols should get tested for COVID-19.
City Ordinance No. 2021-20, on the other hand, mandated the installation of impermeable transparent plastic or acetate barrier for the driver compartment and in between rows of seats of public utility jeepney (PUJ) and the maintenance of such in good condition.
It further stated that installed barriers must be replaced when damaged or worn out.
Passenger load shall not also exceed 50% or half of the vehicle’s capacity, excluding the driver and conductor.
Penalties for violation included P500 fine for the first offense, P750 fine for the second, and P1,000 fine for the third and subsequent offenses.
The ordinance covers all operators and drivers of PUJs plying across Navotas.
Meanwhile, City Ordinance No. 2021-21 amended Section 6 of City Ordinance No. 2020-40 or the “Wear Your Face Shield Ordinance of Navotas City.”
It stated that those caught not wearing face shield while using public transportation, or while in the workplace, markets, and other enclosed public places or establishments within the city will be meted with corresponding penalties.
First-time violators shall undergo mandatory RT-PCR test to be scheduled within a week from the time of apprehension and at the discretion of the City Health Office.
Second-time offenders will be slapped with P500 fine or 16 hours of community service under supervision of any city government department or office, if apprehended within 14 days of their first violation. If 14 days had passed, they shall undergo another free, mandatory swab testing.
The same shall apply for the third offense depending on the violators’ latest date of apprehension.
If RT-PCR tests are unavailable, the penalty will be P500 or 16 hours of community service. If the violators are minor, their parent or guardian shall undergo the swab test or pay the fine.
“We urge everyone to continue to follow the minimum safety protocols. Wear your face mask properly. Wear your face shield when necessary. Practice social distancing. Always wash your hands with soap and water or disinfect with alcohol. And stay at home as much as you can. These simple deeds can save lives, and these can help us end the pandemic,” Mayor Toby Tiangco said.