Law to stop moma spitting in LT filed

By Grace Abrio

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- A proposed ordinance was filed here last week to prevent individuals who chew moma (betel nut) from spitting anywhere to promote health and improve tourism industry in this capital town.

Councilors Roderick Awingan, Francis Lee and Horacio A. Ramos in their resolution said the mixture of betel nut, gawed, lime, tobacco, and other ingredients for chewing produces reddish spittle when blended and chewed.

The anti-spitting law had been implemented already in the said town, but Awingan specified moma to be the subject in the present resolution to attract local and foreign tourists and recognize the town as a place which is clean.

The proposed law requires Individuals chewing moma to bring spittoons that can be emptied in an appropriate place.

A public hearing of the proposed ordinance is set on Jan. 26 at the municipal hall.

If approved, the ordinance would penalize violators to pay P2,500 as fine or imprisonment for a period of six months.