The Mandaue City government has tightened regulations on kite flying following an incident on the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) where nylon kite strings reportedly endangered motorists.
City Council Approves Resolution
Mandaue City Councilor Carlo Fortuna announced that the council has passed a resolution and is preparing an ordinance to regulate the materials used in kite flying, particularly hazardous nylon strings.
Fortuna explained that while kite flying is a popular pastime in Mandaue, the use of nylon poses significant risks to motorists, especially those on motorcycles passing through major roads and bridges such as the Marcelo Fernan Bridge and Osmeña Bridge.
"We have seen risks of injuries and accidents. We don't want to wait for more accidents, so we pushed this resolution to inform the public, especially those flying large kites," Fortuna said.
Risks of Nylon Strings
He warned that nylon can cause cuts, tear clothing, and lead to severe injuries to the neck or chest. According to Fortuna, large kites often use high-tension nylon that extends hundreds of feet into the sky. If cut or snagged on the road, motorists may not see it immediately, increasing accident risks.
Ordinance Provisions
Under the proposed ordinance, kite flying is not banned, but the focus is on regulating unsafe materials. "We did not ban kite flying because it is a form of recreation. We only aim to regulate the materials used so they do not harm the public," the councilor explained.
As part of preventive measures, the Mandaue City Police Office, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and barangay public safety officers are tasked with educating residents on safe kite flying and monitoring vacant lots.
The ordinance is expected to include fines for violators, starting at P1,000 for the first offense and up to P5,000 for subsequent offenses.
Fortuna said the city's move serves as a "wake-up call" for the public to be proactive in responsibility and prevent accidents before they happen.
