A PUBLIC consultation regulating the operation of internet cafes, computer rental shops in La Trinidad will be held on March 6, 1:30 p.m., at the Lednicky Hall, Municipal Hall.
Councilor Roderick Awingan introduced the proposed ordinance last year batting for the regulation of computer shops in the valley and has invited all stakeholders particularly owners of the 341 licensed computer shops to give their inputs and recommendations in the enactment of the proposed ordinance.
Awingan said internet and computer shops have expanded its services, however, it is also one of the reasons why there are a lot of children addicted into the technology.
Under the proposed ordinance, no establishments will be allowed to operate gaming or computer games either on or offline during schools hours from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Mondays to Fridays or on Saturdays when classes are held.
Computer gaming shops are strictly prohibited from allowing entry of student during school hours. Business hours of the establishments for all minors, both students and out-of-school youth will be limited only up to seven in the evening.
The ordinance also regulates the acts of engaging, performing, exhibiting any sexual, immoral or obscene act, which are offensive to moral, decency and good customs in front of a digital camera, computer video camera, camera equipped mobile phones, and webcams.
“We can say that computer shops are part of our lives because of information technology, but information technology can destroy the lives of the children and it is the right of the local government to regulate these services offered in the public,” said Awingan.
Meanwhile, President Rodrigo Duterte have signed Proclamation no. 417 declaring the second Tuesday of February of every year as safe internet day for children which was sign last February 5.
The declaration was first introduced in 2004 to various countries in Europe and is currently being observed by more than 100 countries in the world to raise awareness on online issues faced by children.
The Inter-Agency Council Against Child Pornography in coordination with the National Youth Commission and all other agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government including the government-owned corporations and local government units are directed to cooperate with the IACACP in advocating and implementing programs and activities. (Lauren Alimondo)