An ordinance on parental responsibility, aimed at reducing the number of neglect cases, takes effect in Iloilo City this month.

After its passage before the Iloilo City Sangguniang Panlungsod last July, the policy affirms “the natural and primary right of parents” in child rearing.

According to the ordinance, “The Iloilo City Government has [made] ongoing efforts to protect the interest of a child from reckless, careless, and negligent parents; to shield them from dangerous or predatory situations arising from such irresponsibility; and to maintain the city government’s status as a child-friendly city.”

The policy punishes parents for neglectful behavior, including permitting children to ride an overloaded tricycle, engage in gambling, consume alcoholic beverages, use cigarettes and other tobacco products, among other actions.

Parents found in violation of the ordinance face fines between P500 and P5,000.

Stiffer penalties are reserved for parents who allow their children to buy, sell, and/or use illegal drugs; join gangs; engage in hazing; among other actions./WDJ