The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Central Visayas issued a warning on Wednesday to parents regarding the potential legal consequences of allowing their children to engage in caroling near busy streets with passing vehicles.
Shalaine Marie Lucero, the regional director of DSWD-7, emphasized the importance of safeguarding children from harm, stating that sending them out onto the streets poses significant risks.
“We have a robust inter-agency task force focused on anti-mendicancy in Cebu City, which aims to rescue children involved in begging or similar activities. This ordinance also applies to children caroling near moving vehicles,” she explained.
Lucero further noted that parents permitting their children to chase cars for caroling could face arrest under child abuse laws.
In related news, the office of Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia reported that more than 40 individuals have applied for permits to conduct caroling in the city this Christmas season. Guidelines for residents from outside Cebu City wishing to hold caroling activities are expected to be announced soon.
The Cebu City Anti-Mendicancy Board reminded the public on November 4 that caroling without a permit is prohibited under City Ordinance 1361, also known as the Anti-Mendicancy Ordinance, and individuals interested in conducting such activities must obtain the necessary permits. (PNA)