KABAYAN, Benguet – An Ordinance authored by Councilor James Aroco regulating the sale of solvents, mainly rugby, in the Municipality of Kabayan is soon to take effect.
The proposed law, “Rugby Ordinance of 2017”, is a response to the information that children are engaged in sniffing rugby which reportedly affects their behavior and attitude.
Councilor Aroco asserts that there is a need to regulate the sale and distribution of rugby and other solvents which directly affects the physical and psychological well-being of an individual.
The ordinance makes the sale or distribution of rugby and other related solvents to minors unlawful. Additionally, it requires sellers to keep a logbook recording the name, address, and purpose of the person buying the substance. In times where doubt of the buyer’s age exists, legal documents or IDs can be required as proof of age.
Violation of the proposed law makes the distributor liable to a fine of P1,000 for the first offense, P2,000 for the second offense, and P2,500 along with the cancellation of business permits for the third and succeeding offenses.
Furthermore, minors caught in possession of rugby and other related solvents will be brought to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) for appropriate response by the law.
Individuals who use rugby and other solvents in their trade or other activities must keep the substance in a secured place where only the trade users will have access.
On the 8th of May, during a Provincial Board meeting, a favorable review of the Kabayan Rugby Ordinance of 2017 was approved.
BY JESUS ESSA L. CALACALA III