PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — To protect the youth from criminal and immoral social influences, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Council) will deliberate an ordinance that seeks to impose “discipline hours”.
Sangguniang Panlalawigan Board member Marivic Roxas, the proposed ordinance’s author, said the “discipline hours” would be imposed from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. on youths below 18 years old.
Citing the 1987 Philippine Constitution, Roxas said Wednesday the welfare of Palawan’s youth has to be given attention because of their future role in society.
“We need to protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and overall welfare, as well as their future participation in nation building. That is why we thought of passing this ordinance,” she said.
Roxas said that due to technology, the youth’s exposure to adverse influences is high, such as the use of prohibited drugs, and gambling.
“At night time, they are prone to accidents and crimes perpetrated by unscrupulous individuals. The discipline hours can help set them on the right path,” she said.
Roxas said her proposed ordinance also gives emphasis to the participation of parents or guardians, who would be answerable in case their minors get involved in crimes or accidents.
The ordinance has been referred to the Committee on Rules and Law of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. (PNA)
