Strict Implementation of Anti-mendicancy Law Pushed

Cagayan De Oro City (PNA) – A city official urged people to consider the welfare of those asking for alms on the streets while pushing for stricter implementation of the anti-mendicancy law here. City Councilor Annie Daba said on Thursday that the anti-mendicant law should be strictly implemented after noting the prevalence of children and adults begging for alms on the city streets.

“We have noticed that these beggars are pestering on families that visit the parks on weekends,” Daba said.She said that the beggars often get angry if one does not give in to their demands for anything that includes food and money.

Daba underscored the need to strictly implement the anti-mendicancy law for fear that some criminals might pose as “beggars” to carry out criminal activities during the Christmas holidays.

The city councilor also noted the safety of the children who race against vehicles on the streets and block pathways of terrified students.

“It is time for us to also take into consideration the safety of these beggars, especially the children, on the street,” Daba said.

She said that the Anti-Mendicancy Law of the city’s codified ordinance of 1994 prohibits persons to enter any establishment for the purpose of begging or soliciting goods, alms, or gifts.

These establishments include eateries, restaurants, hotels, refreshment parlors, or any establishment where food is served to the public or any place of worship where the service is performed.

Daba urged concerned government agencies to adopt measures to address the growing mendicants in this seaport capital of Northern Mindanao. (PNA) CTB/CD