Dads delay decision on anti-spanking measure

The Cebu City Council has set aside for more study a proposed ordinance banning corporal punishment for children and imposing fines on parents who violate the ban.

The proposed ordinance was due for third and final reading last Wednesday but some councilors had last-minute questions about its provisions.

Councilor Jose Daluz said he wanted parents who discipline their children excluded from the coverage of penalties.

“The natural right of parents to decide how they discipline their children should not be subject to state interference,” he said.

“There are laws that protect a child from abuse. I trust that parents are always looking after what is good for their child,” Daluz said.

He also sought the deletion of section 10 which requires the Cebu City Commission for the Welfare and Protection of Children and the Sangguniang Kabataan to appropriate 2 percent of their annual funds for counseling and implementation of child-friendly programs or activities relating to the measure.

Councilor Edgar Labella said the wording of the proposed ordinance had to be improved for clarity.

Final deliberation of the draft ordinance was reset for the council’s June 20 session.

The proposed ordinance would prohibit acts such as spanking, beating with or without the use of instruments, pinching the child’s ear and shaving of hair, solitary confinement and verbal threats and humiliation used against a minor.

A fine of P5,000 or six months in jail will be imposed on parents, guardians and even teachers who violate the proposed ordinance.

The draft ordinance was sponsored by Councilors Leah Japson, Margot Osmeña, Alvin Dizon and John Philip Po II./Chief of Reporters Doris C. Bongcac