Law Summary

Purpose and Authority

• Legal Principle: This Executive Order aims to amend existing rat control regulations in the Manila Port District to prevent the introduction of bubonic plague.
• Authority: Issued by Ramon Magsaysay, President of the Philippines, under the powers vested by law.

Designation of the Rat-Proof Building Zone

• Explanation: The Manila South Port District and Manila North Port District are designated as the "Manila Port Area Rat-Proof Building Zone."
• Boundaries:
  • South: 25th Street
  • East: Bonifacio Drive (South Port District) to Dewey Boulevard Extension (North Port District)
  • North: Reclamation of the North Port District
  • West: Manila Bay

Construction Requirements

• Legal Principle: Only certain building materials are allowed to ensure rat-proof construction.
• Permissible Materials:
  • Durable materials such as reinforced concrete, bricks, iron, and steel
  • Wood may be used for doors, window frames, and roof trusses
• Prohibited Materials: Mamposteria (adobe), asbestos boards, and similar materials are not satisfactory.

Restrictions on Animal Keeping and Food Preparation

• Requirements:
  • No stables, pigs, chickens, or domestic animals are allowed within the zone.
  • Food preparation, cooking, and selling are permitted only in designated buildings approved by a specific committee.
• Committee Composition:
  • Chairman of the Port Commission
  • Commissioner of Customs
  • Director of Health
  • Director of Quarantine
  • City Health Office of Manila

Oversight and Approval Process

• Building Regulations:
  • All food establishments must conform to rat-proof specifications.
  • Kitchens must be protected against insect infestation.
• Approval Authorities:
  • Plans must be approved by the Director of Public Works and the Director of Health.
  • No occupancy or use of buildings is allowed without certification from these directors indicating compliance with rat prevention standards.

Lease Conditions and Compliance

• Leases: All land leases within the Rat-Proof Building Zone must adhere to the conditions set forth in this Executive Order to prevent rat harborage.
• Health Oversight: Operations of food establishments are under the jurisdiction of the City Health Office of Manila, which will issue rules and regulations.

Supersession Clause

• Cross-Reference: This Executive Order supersedes Executive Order No. 512, dated July 1, 1952.

Key Takeaways

• Designation: Establishes a rat-proof zone in specified areas of the Manila Port to combat potential plague threats.
• Construction Materials: Strict guidelines on materials to be used for buildings, focusing on durability and pest prevention.
• Committee Oversight: A designated committee is responsible for the approval of food establishments, ensuring they meet health and safety standards.
• Compliance Requirement: Land leases and building constructions must comply with the provisions to prevent rat infestation.