A CEBU City councilor wants to regulate the operation of peryahan (fairgrounds) following reports of unauthorized operators running them in the barangays.
In a draft legislation submitted to the council, Councilor Raymond Garcia wants operators to secure a mayor’s permit before they are allowed to operate.
But before this, the proprietor must apply for an endorsement from the concerned barangay council to ensure proof of social acceptability.
Should the concerned barangay issue an official denial or refuse the application within 30 days, the applicant may bring the matter to the City Council.
Garcia also wants them to establish their business in an area approved by the City Planning and Development Office pursuant to provisions of the City Zoning Ordinance.
The operation, however, shall only start after its contrivances and facilities have been issued a certificate of safety inspection by the City Engineer, Bureau of Fire Protection 7, and health authorities.
Concerned offices, including the barangay council, will also conduct on-site inspections before and during the operation.
“Public safety and security must always be ensured. Proprietors shall by all means cooperate in upholding the safety of the contrivances and the peace and order during the operation. (They shall) report to the barangay peace officers and to the City Police Office whenever any untoward commotion or circumstances arise,” reads a portion of the proposed ordinance.
Under the proposed ordinance, peryahans will only be allowed to operate a month before any special occasion. The sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.
Operators must also install garbage cans and adequate portable toilets within the premises.
The proprietor is required to post a refundable cash bond of P10,000 with the City Treasurer’s Office. This will serve as a deposit for any liability or damage the operation of the funfair may cause.
Violators will have to pay a fine ranging from P1,000 to P5,000 depending on the degree of offense. The court may also order jail time of six months to one year.
Garcia’s ordinance was referred to the committee on laws for their comment. (RTF)