SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU), through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the Committee on Tourism, conducted a surprise inspection of various public toilets in the city recently. 

Along with the PGLU, the La Union Police Provincial Office (LUPPO), the Provincial Health Office (PHO), and the La Union Provincial Tourism Office (LUPTO) participated in the activity. 

The inspection took place in the city’s market, school, restaurants, bus terminals, and gasoline stations, where people frequently use and visit the public restrooms.

The activity was conducted to ensure that city establishments comply with the Clean Public Toilets Ordinance of 2023. 

The Clean Public Toilets Ordinance of 2023, authored by La Union Board Member Geraldine Joy Ortega, is under the Provincial Ordinance No. 422, series of 2023 which regulates the maintenance and cleanliness of public toilets in the province to promote the right to health among the people. 

The PGLU emphasized that the cleanliness of public restrooms and instilling health awareness among everyone is crucial, especially that the province has already become a popular destination for tourists nationwide.

"It's about time na gumawa tayo ng action para malinis ang ino-offer nating public toilets sa mga tourists natin. Alam natin na maraming nagkakasakit kung madumi ang toilets natin which is not good. It creates a lot of diseases gaya ng Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), bato, and even gallstones. That's why I made this ordinance," Ortega said. 

Ortega added that the surprise visit was simply a preliminary inspection and businesses in the city should upgrade their public facilities in preparation for future spot checks.

Moreover, those who will commit any violation of the provisions of the ordinance will be penalized with a fine of P5,000 for the first and second offenses, revocation of business licenses or a prison sentence of up to six months for repeat offenders.

The Brain and Heart of Christians (BHC) Educational Institution, Inc., and Shell Carlatan were commended by the inspectors for their innovative and hygienic facilities that serve as a model for other public restrooms in the province.

The public restroom in the city plaza was also praised for their cleanliness and well-maintained toilets.

However, bus terminals, city markets, and a gas station were alerted about some violations, further modifications, and repairs.

"Meron po tayong ordinansa kaya sana po ay irespeto po natin ang ordinansang ito. To all the users, I ask you to all be disciplined po,” Ortega added.

Both business owners and the public are advised to practice self-discipline and cooperation in proper garbage disposal and keeping the restrooms clean, which is for the benefit of the entire province.

The PGLU hopes that the nation will eventually adopt the legislation in an effort to build cleaner and safer public spaces for both locals and visitors, not only in the province of La Union but throughout the country. (JCR/AMB/SGR, PIA La Union)