Marikina Internet cafés asked to implement ban on students during school hours

MANILA, Philippines—The Marikina City government has warned owners of Internet cafes and computer shops to strictly observe an ordinance prohibiting them from renting out computers to students and minors for social networking or online gaming during school hours.

“[We told] all computer rental shop owners that the city government has been conducting inspections on computer rental shops since the passage of our ordinance,” Mayor Del de Guzman said in an e-mailed statement.

He added that the inspections were prompted by reports that Internet shop owners have been lax in implementing Ordinance No. 44, series of 2006.

“Shop owners should religiously exercise their authority and rights … during school hours,” he said as he warned that violators would be meted out fines.

The ordinance also requires students who enter Internet cafes or computer rental shops to present identification cards and their class schedule.

They are also banned from entering these establishments after curfew (between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m.) unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.