In a move to enforce public cleanliness, the Lapu-Lapu City government has penalized multiple individuals and business operators for failing to comply with local sanitation laws.
Citations Issued in Barangay Mactan
Personnel from the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) issued citation tickets to 18 residents and business owners in Barangay Mactan on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Each violator was fined P300 for breaking Ordinance 484-97, also known as the Comprehensive Environment and Sanitation Code.
The enforcement action was the result of an ocular inspection conducted in Sitio Soong. The inspection was carried out under the directive of Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan, who has prioritized strengthening environmental protection and promoting community cleanliness.
What the Ordinance Mandates
The local law holds residents and commercial establishments accountable for the cleanliness of a five-meter radius around their property. This area includes adjacent sidewalks and surrounding spaces. Common violations that led to the fines include:
- Maintaining unclean surroundings.
- Illegally dumping waste.
- Failing to segregate garbage.
- Obstructing public sidewalks.
Cenro emphasized the importance of clear walkways in a statement, noting, “Sidewalks serve as public right of way and are essential to pedestrian safety. These areas must remain free from obstructions at all times.” Several of those fined were owners of junk shops and retail stores found in violation of these rules.
Penalties for Repeat Offenders
The city has established a escalating penalty structure for violations of the sanitation ordinance:
- First-time violators are fined P300.
- Second-time offenders face a steeper fine of P500.
- Those caught a third time will be fined P1,000.
Furthermore, individuals who refuse to settle the imposed fines could face imprisonment of up to 30 days. This strict enforcement underscores the city's commitment to upholding its environmental codes.
This crackdown in Barangay Mactan signals a broader effort by the Lapu-Lapu City government to take a firm stance against practices that compromise public health, safety, and urban livability.
