A barangay in General Santos City is strengthening its campaign against the rising cases of teenage pregnancy through an ordinance that prohibits minors from checking into several accommodations.

Officials of Barangay Conel said they will implement the policy strictly, which bans minors from checking in at hotels, inns, lodging houses, mountain resorts, camping sites, and other similar establishments within the barangay.

The ordinance, approved by the City Council on October 28, 2025, is based on a resolution passed by the barangay council.

According to the barangay, the legislative measure aims to reduce the increasing number of teenage pregnancy in the community.

In 2024, more than 60 minors became pregnant. In 2025, at least 30 minors became pregnant from January 1 to November 28, which the barangay considers alarming.

“Kay nakit-an man gud namo nga daghan ang teenage pregnancy… sagad mga high school nagabuntis. Dili man nato mahibal-an kung ngano ing-ana sila. Ang uban siguro nagasulod sa inn. Ginabawal pud ang tag-iya sa inn kung naa minors dili pasudlon,” Barangay Conel Chairwoman Tessi Agbayani said.

However, the barangay clarified that there are exemptions. Minors may be allowed if accompanied by their parents or legal guardians. Students may also check in for school-related activities, provided there is adult supervision and proper documentation from the school.

Establishments found violating the ordinance may be fined or may have their business permit revoked.

The policy has gained support from parents.

“Para nako, okay man pud siya para sa kaayuhan sa kabataan,” a parent, Mimi Camposo, said.

“Ugma nila among gilantaw…naningkamot mi mga ginikanan nga unta among mga anak mamahimong malampuson sa ilang pag-eskwela ugma damlag,” Agbayani added.