Baguio to ban pedestrians from using gadgets while walking
The Baguio City Council wants to address one of the biggest issues in this generation – many pedestrians get distracted by mobile devices, putting both themselves and drivers in danger.
Anti-Distracted Walking Ordinance
Recently, the city council has approved the Anti-Distracted Walking Ordinance on its third and final reading.
According to its proponent, SOFAD Eriko R. Coscolluela, the use of gadgets while crossing the street can cause accidents because it makes people unaware of their surroundings. Moreover, he also said that using mobile devices can slow down their walking pace, causing obstruction and affecting the mobility of other pedestrians.
Penalties under the ordinance
The ordinance will prohibit pedestrians from using gadgets while crossing the street or passing sidewalks. Also, skimming of any book while on the road will also be prohibited as well.
Below are the penalties that will apply, once the city mayor finally approves the ordinance.
| Penalty | |
| First offense | none |
| Second offense | PHP 1,000.00 |
| Third offense | PHP 2,000.00 |
| Fourth & succeeding offenses | PHP 2,500.00 and community service or 11-30 days imprisonment |
People authorized to apprehend violators of the said ordinance are the following:
- Barangay tanods
- Baguio City Police Office
- Baguio Traffice Management Unit
- Public Order and Safety Division of the Mayor’s Office
How do you feel about this?
