The expanded Anti-Distracted Walking Ordinance would require pedestrians to keep right on two-way sidewalks while giving priority to people who are walking.
The Baguio City Council has approved on third and final reading an amendment expanding the city’s Anti-Distracted Walking Ordinance to include a “keep right” rule on two-way sidewalks.
Ordinance 77-2026, principally authored by Councilor Yuri Weygan, also establishes that sidewalks must be used primarily by walking pedestrians. However, the measure has not yet been implemented because it remains subject to the signing of the City Mayor.
The ordinance defines a two-way sidewalk as one with enough space for two people to walk side by side.
When using these sidewalks, pedestrians must stay on the right and avoid occupying the lane used by people walking in the opposite direction. The rule particularly applies to pedestrians walking in groups.
Persons with disabilities who need additional space to use the sidewalk safely are exempted from the keep-right requirement.
Exceptions may also be allowed during emergencies.
Under the amendment, sidewalks are primarily intended for people who are walking.
Those engaged in other activities, including jogging, running or taking photos, must give way to walking pedestrians and must not obstruct their movement.
The amendment retains the prohibition against using mobile devices to text or read messages while:
Reading other materials while crossing a pedestrian lane or walking on sidewalks or streets also remains prohibited.
However, a person will not be considered a violator if they stop, move to the side of the sidewalk and do not obstruct pedestrian traffic. This exemption was introduced when the ordinance was amended in 2023.
The penalties established under the 2023 amendment will remain:
The 2023 amendment replaced the original second-offense penalty of a ₱1,000 fine with community service. It also removed the separate penalties previously prescribed for third, fourth and succeeding offenses under the original 2019 ordinance.
The following authorities are authorized to monitor and apprehend violators:
Authorities are directed to exercise due diligence, patience and maximum tolerance when advising or reprimanding possible violators.
CCTV cameras operated by the city government, police and barangays may be used to monitor and provide proof of violations. A person charged with an offense may also contest it by presenting video footage.
The City Buildings and Architecture Office will prepare signages explaining the ordinance. These will be installed in strategic locations, including parks and bus stations.
The City Mayor’s Office Public Information Office and the City Council are also tasked with widely disseminating information about the expanded rules.
Ordinance 77-2026 further amends Ordinance 49-2019, which originally established Baguio City’s Anti-Distracted Walking Ordinance.
According to the amendatory ordinance, the additional provisions are intended to promote safety, discipline and accessibility on sidewalks while prioritizing walking pedestrians and providing reasonable exemptions for PWDs and emergency situations.
The measure has been transmitted to the City Mayor’s Office for signing before it can be implemented.
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