In the heart of Baguio City, where locals call it home and visitors come to explore, understanding the city's ordinances is not just a matter of convenience; it's a shared responsibility. These rules are the threads that weave together the city's daily life. Whether you're a resident or a tourist, abiding by these ordinances ensures a smoother, more enjoyable stay.
This guide will walk you through key ordinances, from traffic rules to environmental conservation, that impact everyone in the community. By adhering to these regulations, we collectively contribute to the harmony and well-being of Baguio City.
Traffic Ordinances: Navigating Baguio's Roads
In Baguio City, traffic ordinances play a vital role in ensuring the smooth flow of vehicles and the safety of pedestrians. Let's take a closer look at some of these regulations:
King of the Road Ordinance
This ordinance is all about pedestrian safety. Motorists must fully stop for five seconds before pedestrian lanes or slow down when approaching them to allow pedestrians to cross safely. No vehicles are allowed to block the pedestrian lane.
Penalties:
- 1st Offense: Confiscation of driver's license and a fine of PHP 1,000.00
- 2nd Offense: Confiscation of driver's license and a fine of PHP 2,000.00
- 3rd Offense: Confiscation of driver's license and a fine of PHP 3,000.00
Number Coding Scheme
The Number Coding Scheme is implemented to manage traffic. Based on the last digit of their license plates, vehicles are prohibited from entering or operating within the number coding zone from 7 AM to 7 PM on specific days. Here's the schedule:
- 1 & 2 - Mondays
- 3 & 4 - Tuesdays
- 5 & 6 - Wednesdays
- 7 & 8 - Thursdays
- 9 & 0 - Fridays
If your vehicle doesn't have a plate number, the last number of the conduction sticker is used.
Period of Application: The number coding scheme is in effect from 7 AM to 7 PM for vehicles prohibited within the zone.
Area of Coverage: The prohibition applies to various roads within the city. These include Naguilian Road, Abanao Street, Marcos Highway, Kennon Road, Military Cut-Off Road, South Drive, M. Roxas Road, and more. Roads outside this perimeter line are exempt.
Penalty: Violation of the Number Coding Scheme can result in a PHP 500.00 fine and/or confiscation of the driver's license.
Understanding and adhering to these traffic ordinances is crucial for both residents and visitors to ensure a smooth and safe experience on Baguio City's roads. By following these rules, you contribute to the overall traffic harmony in the city.
Pedestrian Safety Ordinances
In Baguio City, ensuring the safety of pedestrians is a top priority, and this is reflected in the "Anti-Distracted Walking" ordinance. Let's delve into the details:
Anti-Distracted Walking Ordinance (Ordinance Numbered 49 Series of 2018)
This rule prohibits and regulates the use of mobile devices and other distractive devices and items while walking and crossing the streets and sidewalks in the City of Baguio. The City of Baguio recognizes its responsibility to promote the public health and safety of everyone residing and traversing within the city.
Prohibited Acts:
- Using a mobile device by texting or reading texts while crossing a pedestrian crossing or the street, or while traversing a sidewalk, which causes a delay in the mobility of other pedestrians.
- Reading any reading material while crossing a pedestrian crossing, or walking on sidewalks, or the street.
Penalties and Fines:
- 1st Offense: Reprimand by the person-in-charge or officer on duty.
- 2nd Offense: PHP 1,000.00 or community service.
- 3rd Offense: PHP 2,000.00 and community service or 1-10 days imprisonment.
- 4th Offense: PHP 2,500.00 and community service or 11-30 days imprisonment.
The Public Order and Safety Division (POSD) of the Mayor's Office, Baguio City Police Office (BCPO), Baguio Traffic Management Unit (TMU), Barangay Tanods, and Enforcers are advised to exercise due diligence, patience, and maximum tolerance when reprimanding and advising potential violators.
By understanding and adhering to these pedestrian safety ordinances, you're not only following the law but also contributing to a safer, more pleasant Baguio City for all. Stay focused, stay safe.
Environmental Conservation Ordinances
Baguio City's environmental conservation ordinances are integral to maintaining the city's natural beauty and safeguarding public health. Let's explore these regulations:
Anti-Littering Ordinance (Ordinance Numbered 54 Series of 1988, amended by Ordinance Numbered 59 Series of 2020)
This ordinance makes it unlawful for anyone to engage in littering, including spitting, urinating, defecating, vomiting, or disposing of any kind of refuse or garbage in public places. It covers a wide range of areas, from parks and streets to markets and public buildings.
Penalty: Violators face a fine of PHP 1,000.00 or 12 hours of community service for each violation.
Additionally, this ordinance prohibits the illegal dumping of various substances into canals, drainage systems, waterways, and natural bodies of water, ensuring the protection of Baguio's water resources.
Penalty: Violators are subject to a PHP 3,000.00 fine for each violation.
No Burning Ordinance (Ordinance Numbered 571 Series of 1973)
This ordinance strictly prohibits burning trees, grass, garbage, dry leaves, and other inflammable materials in public places. Bonfires outside of residences are also banned, with exceptions permitted under specific conditions set by the City Mayor or authorized representative.
Penalty: Violation may result in a PHP 1,000.00 fine, imprisonment for 60 days, or both at the court's discretion.
Anti-Smoking Ordinance (Ordinance Number 34, Series of 2017)
The "Anti-Smoking" ordinance is geared towards public health and ensures cleaner air for everyone. It forbids the use, sale, distribution, and advertisement of tobacco products in public places. Smoking is only allowed in duly designated smoking areas.
Coverage: The ordinance applies to all persons, residents or not, and all places within the City Government of Baguio.
Penalties:
- 1st Offense: PHP 2,000.00
- 2nd Offense: PHP 3,000.00
- 3rd Offense: PHP 5,000.00
These environmental conservation ordinances collectively play a crucial role in preserving Baguio City's natural beauty, cleanliness, and public health. By following these rules, you contribute to the sustainability and well-being of this remarkable city.
Youth and Curfew Ordinances
Baguio City's Youth and Curfew Ordinances aim to foster community safety and well-being. Here's what you need to know:
Curfew Hours for Minors (Ordinance Numbered 50 Series of 2009, as amended by Ordinance Number 23 Series of 2018)
Any individual below 16 years old must adhere to the curfew hours in Baguio City. These hours are set from 9:00 PM to 4:00 AM the following day. During this time frame, minors are expected to stay at home and not roam or play in streets, roads, plazas, parks, or other public places or establishments.
Purpose: This measure is designed to protect children from crime, violence, and harm, ensuring their safety during the nighttime.
Penalty: An adult claiming to be the guardian, parent, or authorized custodian of a child within the third degree of relationship, either by consanguinity or affinity, shall be penalized under other applicable laws and ordinances.
Respecting these curfew ordinances is not just a matter of legal compliance; it's a demonstration of care for the safety and well-being of the youth in Baguio City. By adhering to these rules, we collectively create a secure and nurturing environment for the young members of our community.
Noise and Public Conduct Ordinances
Baguio City values peaceful coexistence, and its Noise and Public Conduct Ordinances play a pivotal role in maintaining harmony. Let's explore these ordinances:
Silent Night Ordinance (Ordinance Numbered 44 Series of 2018)
This ordinance makes it unlawful for any person to create excessive, unnecessary, or unusually loud sounds from audio devices within residential areas and public streets in Baguio City. The following rules apply:
Prohibited Acts:
- Excessive noise in residential areas and public streets from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM is not allowed.
- The use of videokes or karaokes, a beloved local pastime, may be allowed until 12:00 midnight if residents secure a permit from the Punong Barangay five days before and commit to keeping the volume at acceptable levels.
- Loud sounds, music, or noises are not tolerated within 200 meters of schools, places of worship, and hospitals.
Exemptions:
- During the Christmas Holiday Season, provided that schools have declared their respective Christmas Holidays or from December 16 of one year to January 2 of the following year.
- During All Saints Day and All Souls Day Celebration and other holidays defined as national or local holidays.
- During the Baguio Flower Festival or Panagbenga Celebration.
- During wakes, provided that certain provisions are followed.
- Such other occasions as may be deemed applicable by the Punong Barangay if certain provisions are complied with.
Penalties: Initial verbal warnings are issued for excessive noise. If the violation persists, the following fines apply:
- 1st Offense: PHP 1,000 or imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
- 2nd Offense: PHP 3,000 or imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
- 3rd Offense: PHP 5,000 or imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
On Intoxication and Drunkenness
Under the codified liquor ordinances, being drunk, intoxicated, or behaving in a drunk, rude, or indecent manner to the annoyance of others in any public place in Baguio City is prohibited.
Penalties:
- 1st Offense: PHP 250.00 or imprisonment of not less than five (5) days but not exceeding ten (10) days in the discretion of the court.
- 2nd Offense: PHP 250.00 and imprisonment of twenty (20) days.
- 3rd Offense: PHP 250.00 and imprisonment of thirty (30) days.
- 4th Offense: PHP 500.00 and imprisonment of forty (40) days.
- 5th Offense: PHP 500.00 and imprisonment of fifty (50) days.
- 6th and Subsequent Offenses: PHP 1,000.00 and imprisonment of six (6) months, all with subsidiary imprisonment in case of insolvency for PHP 250.00 per day.
First-Come, First-Served Ordinance
This ordinance emphasizes the importance of fairness and patience. It prohibits various actions, including:
- Cutting in line.
- Using tactics to disrupt the order in a line.
- Employing force, threats, or deceit to break the line.
- Allowing others to cut in line.
Exemptions: Certain individuals are exempt from this ordinance:
- Senior citizens
- Persons with disabilities (PWDs)
- Pregnant women
- Women with babies
- Persons with urgent needs (health, national security, or public interest)
Penalties:
- 1st Offense: PHP 1,000.00
- 2nd Offense: PHP 2,000.00
- 3rd Offense: PHP 5,000.00
Adhering to these ordinances promotes a tranquil and respectful atmosphere in Baguio City, allowing all residents and visitors to enjoy a peaceful and harmonious coexistence.
Parking and Business Ordinances
Baguio City's Parking and Business Ordinances have a significant impact on daily life, affecting both locals and tourists. Let's dive into these regulations and their implications:
Prohibited Parking Places
Understanding where you can and cannot park in Baguio City is crucial to maintain smooth traffic flow and safety. The Comprehensive Transportation and Traffic Regulations for the City of Baguio (Ordinance 07-1984, as amended by Ordinance 75-2019) enumerate all the prohibited parking places. Here's what you need to know:
Prohibited Parking Locations No person shall park or leave a vehicle in the following locations:
- Between any other vehicle or the center of the thoroughfare.
- Between a pedestrian zone and the nearest curve or within nine (9) meters from the nearest curve directly opposite the ends of a pedestrian zone.
- In front of a right of way, passage on a private drive, or so close thereto as to deny vehicles reasonable access to or egress from the right of way, passage, or private way.
- In front of a footway constructed across a reservation.
- On any footway, marked crosswalk, or pedestrian crossing.
- On or within nine (9) meters of any portion of a thoroughfare bound on one or both sides of a traffic island.
- Upon a bridge or other elevated structure or within a tunnel or underpass.
- Between the boundaries of a thoroughfare and any double yellow line.
- Upon an intersection.
- On any portion of a thoroughfare with which "Keep Clear" is marked.
- Within one (1) meter of any fire hydrant.
- Within three (3) meters of a letter pillar or letter box.
- On a reservation.
- Within six (6) meters of any marked crosswalk, of the prolongation of any property line of any road more than sixty (60) meters wide intersecting the road in which the vehicle is traveling, or on the departure side of a sign inscribed with "Bus Stop" or "PUJ" stop unless the vehicle is a public utility bus or jeepney which stops to unload or load passengers.
- Within nine (9) meters of an intersection.
- Upon a bus and PUJ lane except that a public utility vehicle may remain waiting while persons are actually entering or alighting from the said vehicle.
Penalty: PHP 500.00 for each violation.
By adhering to these parking regulations, you contribute to smoother traffic and a safer environment for all in Baguio City.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the specific traffic rules under Baguio City ordinances, and how do they affect both locals and tourists?
Baguio City has a set of traffic ordinances, including the "First Come, First Served" policy for motorists, the "King of the Road" ordinance, and the Number Coding Scheme. These ordinances aim to ensure orderly and safe traffic conditions for both residents and visitors. By following these rules, you can help maintain a smooth and secure environment on Baguio's roads.
2. Can you explain the "Silent Night" ordinance and its implications for residents and visitors?
The "Silent Night" ordinance regulates loud noises from audio devices between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. in residential areas and public streets. This ordinance is designed to provide residents and tourists with peaceful evenings and quiet nights. It contributes to creating a harmonious atmosphere in the city, especially during nighttime hours.
3. What are the penalties for violating the "Anti-Littering" ordinance in Baguio City, and how does it benefit the local environment?
Violating the "Anti-Littering" ordinance can result in a fine of PHP 1,000.00 or 12 hours of community service for each offense. This ordinance plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness of public spaces and safeguarding the environment. By discouraging littering, Baguio City protects its natural beauty, making it a more attractive and sustainable destination for residents and tourists.
4. Are there exceptions to the curfew hours for minors in Baguio, and how do they contribute to community safety?
In Baguio City, there is a curfew for minors from 9:00 PM to 4:00 AM the following day, without exceptions. This curfew is essential for ensuring the safety of children and protecting them from potential risks such as crime and harm. It places responsibility on parents or guardians to keep their children indoors during these hours, significantly enhancing community safety.
5. How do Baguio City parking regulations affect both locals and tourists, especially during peak seasons?
Baguio's parking regulations, which include prohibited parking places, are vital for managing traffic and ensuring safety. These rules become especially crucial during peak tourist seasons when the city experiences higher traffic volumes. Adhering to these parking regulations helps maintain smooth traffic flow and ensures that both locals and tourists can find suitable parking, contributing to a more enjoyable experience for everyone in Baguio City.
6. Where can I find information about other Baguio City ordinances and regulations?
For more information about Baguio City ordinances and regulations, you can visit the official Baguio City government website or contact the local government authorities. Staying informed about these regulations is essential for a safe and pleasant experience in the city.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baguio City's ordinances play a vital role in maintaining order and ensuring a pleasant experience for both residents and visitors. We've explored a range of regulations, from traffic and pedestrian safety to environmental conservation, youth curfews, and noise control. These rules not only safeguard public health and safety but also enhance the quality of life in this beautiful city.
To fully enjoy your time in Baguio and contribute to the well-being of the community, it's crucial to stay informed and respect these ordinances. By doing so, we can all be responsible stewards of this remarkable city and help create a harmonious and enjoyable environment for everyone.
