Valenzuela approves ‘Bawal ang COVID-19 Jokes’ ordinance

MANILA, Philippines — The Valenzuela City government has signed the “Bawal Ang COVID-19 Jokes” ordinance which penalizes those who will spread false and malicious claims on the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

The ordinance, which was signed by Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian last May 14 but was sent to the media on Tuesday, prohibits spreading malicious and fake information on COVID-19 or accusing that someone is infected with the respiratory ailment.

Under the ordinance, the government will penalize the proliferation of fake information about COVID-19 “by word of mouth, written, printed or video through whatever form of communication” which includes social media platforms, text messages, electronic mail, among others.

https://www.facebook.com/ValenzuelaCityGov/photos/a.186470278377/10159908206728378/?type=3&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARBziB7ni1GktNC5Osoiqthl7QnxXm1xZ-uc0bAp2SxmajT30coX1sHP3MRAC3VzYO3SVRPwmNiN0iJXgTbgdMKOFP5kwsGaip-XDHexx1EoIsM3m90pkITxUyLWFO2UEicy1CZsamlLXx7tAXT2BPWyWx7GkCOiHAfIIL_LFJ_GprdXOuOpanAxd93BcIVPnVDSOYcmDQ2ixkXjL1PRp0BnH12ja1tWlPN5cbDl0MfQ7HvDV7yYv8k6BLFZ_IWRmJessDuM3D7VVNW0wVgnGsMQ5ZF1ZFBbfeg5vj7eaS2FeY6OSd6Ky_99j1qtEJuYlpxWUydzZxyCxSn-3CI2&__tn__=-R

Violators of the ordinance will face a penalty of P5,000 worth of fine or socio-cultural services such as assisting in re-packing relief goods or distribution of relief goods to residents or other community services that may be imposed by the City Mayor or other representatives.

As of Tuesday, May 19, Valenzuela posted 204 COVID-19 cases including 47 recoveries and 11 deaths.