Ordinance wants to prohibit public display of affection in Baguio's Children's Park

Baguio City's public parks for children are not the place for lovers who can't keep their hands off of each other.

If a proposed ordinance is approved by the city council, couples who engage in public display of affection (PDA) may just find themselves paying fines, which could otherwise be used as their date money.

The ordinance, which has been approved on first reading, bans "kissing, petting, necking and lying down together in a scandalous manner in public view" within the premises of Children's Park which is in the famous Burnham Park in Baguio City.

"Children's Park is a fun-filled area for kids and a favorite family destination in the famous Burnham Park. A place where families have a great time to bond with relatives and friends," a copy of the ordinance released to the media said.

"However, it has been observed that lovers from all ages often choose the same as a dating site and do private and intimate acts which are inappropriate for the children to see," it added.

"These inappropriate acts are inimical to the welfare and moral of the children visiting the park, hence, it must be regulated," the 

The proposed penalties for the violation include a fine of P500 for the first offense; P1,000 for the second offense; and P2,000 for the third and subsequent offenses. —Margaret Claire Layug/ Dona Magsino/ LDF, GMA News