QC bans minors from stepping out of their homes

The Quezon City Council has passed an ordinance banning minors from stepping out of their houses. Under the Child Protection Hours ordinance, individuals under 18 must remain at home 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They are prohibited from loitering in public areas and even commercial establishments such as malls and theaters, even if they are accompanied by a guardian. But the ordinance cited exemptions, such as in times of emergency or calamity. Minors are also allowed to go to medical and dental appointments if accompanied by a guardian. The parents or guardian of a minor violating the ordinance will be fined P300, P500 and P1,000 for the first, second and third offenses, respectively. Commercial establishments will likewise be fined and, on the third offense, face business permit revocation. —Nikka G. Valenzuela