Baguio officials seekhelp in war vs graffiti

By Paul Rillorta

BAGUIO CITY – City officials here appealed for help in the “war” against vandalism and graffiti in this mountain resort as sectors of society have sworn to help.

Vice Mayor Daniel Farinas revived the call for dissemination of City Ordinance No. 41 series of 2008 or the “Anti-Graffiti Code of Baguio City” in order to strengthen its implementation in the city.

Initial feedback from business establishments selling paints in the city revealed they were compelled to sell graffiti instruments to minors since they reason they use these for school projects.

Ordinance 41 strictly prohibits the selling of aerosol spray paint or broad-tipped indelible ink markers to minors.

The Baguio City Police Office also observed the same and suggested strict monitoring of  sale of graffiti implements especially to minors.

The BCPO also recommended increasing the penalties imposed on violators to serve as deterrent to others and letting them undergo seminars on responsible citizenship and community service.

“Parents and guardians of the violators who are minors should also be required to join their children in rendering community service,” the BCPO said in a statement.

From the side of the Department of Education, installation of CCTV’s in schools will help in apprehension and identification of violators.

Dep-ed also suggested installation of “freedom walls” which children can write and paint. “Confiscation of graffiti implements will also combat vandalism,” they said.  

The barangay sector also suggested strict implementation on curfew for minors and barangay “ronda” system which can deter vandals and criminals in roaming the streets especially during unholy hours.

Possible amendments to the ordinance include need for the city to task an office to monitor the accessibility and sale of graffiti implements.

The Dep Edwas asked to provide students (minors) with a letter indicating the need for spray paints and similar materials to be used on a school project purposes.

The suggestion was supported by the Commission on Higher Education and DepEd.

Signs regarding strict implementation of the anti-graffiti Ordinance was also proposed.

Stakeholders also urged reward for those who could pinpoint persons or groups responsible for vandalism.

They suggested a city resolution should be passed for such indicating the amount, while an office will be tasked to investigate and verify the accuracy of the claim.

Members of the SP’s legislative team said they hoped  the council would study and consider recommendations provided by the different sectors who are helping the city eradicate vandalism.