Coronavirus jokes a no-no in Valenzuela

Jokes about the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have no place in Valenzuela after the city council passed an ordinance banning the spread of “untruthful claims” that could spark fear, panic and anxiety among residents.

City Ordinance No. 708, or the “Bawal ang COVID-19 Jokes Ordinance” signed last week, prohibits residents from passing false information about the disease, including claiming to be infected with or accusing anyone of having COVID-19.

The prohibition applies to social media, personal conversations, phone calls, letters, emails and other platforms.

Violators will be fined P5,000 or ordered to render sociocultural services in the city such as repacking and distributing relief goods, or community service.

Those 15 years old and below will undergo an intervention program to be organized by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) which includes counseling, rehabilitation and community service.

Those between the ages of 16 and 18 will be turned over to the CSWDO for eight hours after apprehension.

“There is a pressing and urgent need to prohibit the making of untruthful claims of infection or the malicious imputation of sickness on another person as it stirs fear, panic and anxiety to the whole community,” the ordinance read.