• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod has strengthened its anti-mendicancy laws by imposing much stricter penalties under the newly amended City Ordinance No. 1112.
The updated penal system introduces a fine of P5,000 or by imprisonment of 1 year will be served to a mendicant who uses violence, threats, or force in begging.
A P1,000 or a prison sentence of up to one month to adult mendicant found begging in the street while P500 or six months of imprisonment, will be imposed to habitual mendicant who continues to beg even after having been given rehabilitative services.
In addition, authorities are now imposing a P500 fine and a citation ticket on any individual caught giving money directly to street mendicants or exploited minors.
The measure aims to curb the practice of street begging by penalizing those who encourage it on the streets, parks, public roads and sidewalks.
Repeat offenders face escalated penalties, including a P1,000 fine or a one-year prison sentence.*
