Students who cut class face possible fines

ELEMENTARY and high school students who plan to cut classes in Cebu province, beware.

A proposed ordinance seeks to punish minors who loiter in Internet cafes, billiard halls, movie houses and malls during class hours.

The draft Provincial Anti-Truancy Ordinance would also fine business establishments where the students loiter with the amount of P2,000 to P5,000.
During yesterday’s public hearing on the measure Provincial Board Member Miguel Antonio

Magpale said truancy continues to be a leading factor behind students who drop out of school.
No national or local law prohibits students from staying out of class without valid reasons.

The ordinance was approved on first reading and is set for second reading after yesterday’s public hearing.

Prosecutor Raul Cristoria, lawyer Vincent Isles of the Children’s Legal Bureau (CLB), Vice Governor’s Office consultant Bo Sungcad and Department of Education official Marcial Degamo were present at the hearing.

If the ordinance pushes through, a Truancy Board composed of a police officer, barangay captain, barangay tanod or neighborhood crime watchers will be formed.

Students would be prohibited from loitering in malls or in other entertainment establishments in Cebu province from 7 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. during weekdays.

Violators would undergo counseling on the first offense, then made to render up to 36 hours of community service on the second offense. A third offense would draw a fine of less than P500. /Reporter Peter L. Romanillos

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