Since the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, the City Government of Malaybalay has been implementing City Ordinance No. 928 which is the “Mandatory Wearing of Face Masks or Other Similar Protective Equipment.” But for months now, it was observed that many residents have not been strictly wearing face masks in public places.

To strengthen this, Hon. Rendon P. Sangalang sponsored Ordinance No. 951 which clearly states that fines and penalties will be imposed on violators on the first offense. On Sept. 20, 2020, the Sangguniang Panlungsod approved the said ordinance amending the fines and penalties, and also the enforcement of the same.

As stated, first offense will be meted with a fine of Php 2,500.00 or an 8-hour community service. The fine and penalty for the second office is PhP 3,000.00 or 16 hrs. of community service. For the third time an individual is caught not wearing a facemask in public, he/she will be fined PhP 5,000.00 or do community service for 24 hours.

In case an individual fails to settle the said administrative fine imposed upon him/her within 5 days from the issuance of a citation ticket, judicial action will be resorted to by the PNP-City Police Station.

The judicial penalties sanctioned by Ordinance No. 951 on violation of any of its provision is a fine of not less than Php 500.00 but not more than Php 5,000.00 or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year, or both at the discretion of the court.

The PNP – City Police Station will lead in the enforcing of the City Ordinances. To augment this force, Acting City Mayor Jay Warren Pabillaran has deputized the Punong Barangays and their chief BPSOs to apprehend violators within their area of jurisdiction. At the same time, the City IMT Monitoring Team will also be working closely with the enforcers to support them in terms of public education and information.

Be informed! And wear your facemask each and every time you are in public places.