THE ordinance requiring food establishments in Cebu City to provide their customers with free drinking water could result in improved customer loyalty and possibly attract more patrons.
This was how Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) Cebu president Christian Paroan described the measure, authored by Councilor Rey Gealon, that was passed on the third and final reading during the Cebu City Council’s regular session on May 24, 2023. It still needs the signature of Mayor Michael Rama and must be published in a newspaper before it can be implemented.
“It might even lead to increased sales. While customers may come in for the free water, they’re more likely to order food as well once they’re seated in the restaurant,” Paroan said Monday, May 29.
The PRA Cebu official said owners of food establishments may witness an increase in customer satisfaction if they provide free water.
“Offering complimentary water is a simple yet effective way to show customers that their comfort and well-being are valued, which can lead to a boost in overall customer experience,” he said.
“The act of providing free water could also create a positive image for the restaurants, positioning them as considerate and customer-centric businesses,” he added.
Gealon’s explanation
In the explanatory note, Gealon said “there is a need for an ordinance in the City of Cebu that would ensure that the constituents and tourists of Cebu City will have access to free, safe and clean service water in restaurants, food establishments and the like.”
Gealon told SunStar on Monday that this ordinance can help people whose budgets are only meant for the purchase of food.
“I deem it urgent as there are restaurants that do not offer free drinking water. Instead, they’re pushing for their expensive bottles. Kung atong kwarta igo ra gyud intawn sa ilang pagkaon og wa nay ikapalit para sa ilang mainom nga naa sa menu, apil tubig, matuk-an ta (If our money is only enough for the purchase of their food and there’s nothing left to buy for the drinks on the menu, including water, we could choke),” Gealon said.
Consumer welfare
Ines Cajegas of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Cebu’s Consumer Protection Division said the measure is “a step in advancing consumer welfare.”
Cajegas said the local government unit of Cebu City has the power to pass such an ordinance under the general welfare clause of the Local Government Code.
“Through an ordinance, it can provide for penalties to ensure compliance,” she said, congratulating the City Council. “Surely, this will be replicated by other LGUs (local government units).”
Paroan said the measure might help promote healthier hydration choices, contributing to the overall wellness of their customers and the community at large.
“These benefits combined could provide a competitive edge and enhance the reputation of these food establishments,” he said.
The ordinance covers all restaurants, food outlets, canteens, carenderias and similar establishments within the jurisdiction of Cebu City.
Cebu City’s City Health Department is tasked with overseeing the monitoring and inspection of food establishments and enforcement of the ordinance, ensuring that the free water offered by the establishments is potable and safe for drinking.
Food establishments found violating the ordinance will receive a warning for the first offense, then be meted a P3,000 fine for the second offense, and P5,000 fine for the third offense, along with the suspension of the establishment’s business permit.