THE PUBLIC is invited to a consultation to be held on August 29 for the proposed ordinance regulating the sale, distribution and disposal of “momma” or betel nut products in La Trinidad, Benguet.
“Valuable inputs, suggestions and recommendations will be highly appreciated to aid us in the enactment of this proposed ordinance,” said Councilor Roderick Awingan.
Introduced last June, the proposed ordinance seeks to regulate the spitting of momma refuse, as there is an urgent need to provide the necessary revision to strengthen and expand its implementation.
The consultation is set for 1:30 p.m., August 29, at the Lednicky Hall, La Trinidad municipal building.
The proposed ordinance states individuals chewing betel nuts be required to bring a spittoon which refers to a hand container purposely for spitting momma refuse or spittle as indiscriminate spewing of momma is unsanitary and considered as rubbish to the surroundings.
Awingan said to help the implementing officers, the new ordinance widens the coverage for the users of momma who are required to bring with them spittoon otherwise, they will be caught.
The proposed measure includes penalty for violation not exceeding six months imprisonment and a fine of P2,500 for third and final offense and P1,500 and P1,000 for second and first offense.
“While some users reported that this was an alternative to quitting smoking, overindulgence can lead to addiction which can result to permanent discoloration of the gums and teeth and worst the development of oral diseases. Much worst, the continuous unregulated selling and distribution of products had already enticed minors which needs to be immediately acted upon,” stated in the ordinance.