Scope and Prohibitions
- Prohibits any form of obstruction along roads adjacent to hospitals' frontages and emergency access points.
- Prohibits noise disturbances such as horn blowing, engine revving, loud music, karaoke, or any boisterous behavior around hospital vicinities.
Definitions and Coverage
- Applies to all roads within the periphery or circumference of government and private hospitals within the City of Manila.
- Includes all activities that may impede emergency response or hospital operations.
Enforcement and Penalties
- First offense: censure and a fine of PHP 2,000.
- Second offense: a fine of PHP 3,000.
- Third and subsequent offenses: a fine of PHP 5,000 or imprisonment of not less than five days, at the court's discretion.
Implementation
- The ordinance is effective immediately upon approval.
- Emphasizes strict enforcement without exception to ensure critical hospital access is preserved.
Legislative Background and Rationale
- Passed in response to the need for disaster preparedness amid expected major earthquakes or typhoons.
- Recognizes Manila's vulnerability due to its urban density and geological makeup, including its construction on reclaimed peatlands.
- Ensures hospitals can function effectively during emergencies by keeping surrounding roads clear.
- Initiated following recommendations by hospital administrators and disaster management authorities.
Legal Framework
- Provides a regulatory mechanism within the local government unit of Manila.
- Reinforces the City's commitment to disaster risk reduction and management by safeguarding hospital operations.
Amendatory and Supplementary Provisions
- None explicitly stated; the ordinance focuses solely on prohibiting obstructions near hospitals.
Signatories and Approval
- Enacted by the Manila City Council on July 22, 2014.
- Approved by the Mayor on September 10, 2014.
- Authored and sponsored by several council members and officials dedicated to enhancing health safety standards within the city.