Anti-cutting classes measure approved

The Cebu Provincial Board yesterday approved on third and final reading an ordinance that prohibits students from skipping  classes.

The Anti-Truancy Ordinance, which was authored by PB Member Antonio Miguel Magpale, also imposes fine on establishments where these students loiter.

The proposal will now be transmitted to Gov. Hilario Davide III for approval and enactment into a law.

After the approval,  barangay officials and concerned citizens, aside from parents, can legally reprimand students who cut classes.

“Hopefully, with the help of LGUs and those from the education sector, DepEd (Department of Education), we can properly implement this ordinance in the entire province,” said Magpale.

Magpale said the implementation will have to begin with the schools, augmented by the participation of the barangay and other members of the community.

The ordinance seeks to keep minors from loitering in internet cafes, billiard halls, movie houses and malls during class hours.

It would also impose fines on business establishments where students loiter at  P2,000 to P5,000.

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 need to 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.

Magpale clarified that it will not be the students who will pay the fine but their parents.

Before the ordinance was passed, Magpale said it had always been the frustration of those in the barangays because they cannot stop those who cut classes since no provincial law strengthened their stake.

Magpale said concerned officials and citizens only have a hold on minors but on those who still go to high school but are already 18 or older.

“For practical reasons, we cannot reprimand them anymore. But at least those under 18, we have a hold on them. We have a right to tell them that they shouldn’t skip school,” he said.