Force multipliers to aid in regulation of ‘momma’

IN A bid to expand its implementation, force multipliers in a proposed ordinance are authorized to strictly regulate the sale, distribution and disposal of momma or betel nut chew products in La Trinidad.

Councilor Henry Kipas said the proposed ordinance will authorize force multipliers as additional enforcers in implementing the municipal ordinance.

“Today we will add the force multipliers. Of course the lead agency is the police but you are now authorized by this (proposed) ordinance,” Kipas expressed addressing the enforcers and audience in the public consultation on Wednesday.

Ordinance 4-2011 the momma ordinance of the municipality was enacted to regulate the spitting of momma

refuse.

However, there is a need to provide necessary revision to strengthen the implementation said Councilor Roderick Awingan, who proposed the ordinance regulating the sale distribution and disposal of momma citing the indiscriminate spitting remain unhygienic and unsanitary which can result to the spread of various types of diseases.

The proposed ordinance regulates the mandatory use of spitoon, permit to require the sale and distribution of momma products, proper disposal of momma, prohibition against indiscriminate spitting of momma refuse and the sale and distribution of momma products to minors.

Establishments engage in the sale of the momma products will be charged P1,000 environmental fee.

Authorized to enforce include officers of La Trinidad Municipal Police Station, member of the La Trinidad Task force on Anti-Smoking, members of La Trinidad Women’s Brigade, Barangay Officials and members of the Barangay Tanod in their respective jurisdiction and other person and organization authorized by the Mayor.

Enforcers are equipped with Identification card recognized to implement the ordinance.

“We should also understand, we could not prohibit, it’s not our purpose to prohibit the right of other individual rather we strictly regulate,” Kipas added.

Gloria Agasen of STOBOSA cited the continuous spitting of momma within tourist spot of sitios Stonehill, Botiwtiw and Sadjap (StoBoSa) affects the visitors in the area. She also advise proper disposal of spitting momma in the tourist site.

La Trinidad Municipal Police Station head Chief Inspector Benson Macli-ing suggested no contest provision and community based type for the penal provision of the proposed ordinance.

Penalties include fine of P1,000 for first offense, P1,500 for second offense, P2,500 for third and final offense and for imprisonment for not a period of six monhs at the discretion of the court.

Chewing of momma produces red substance when spitted causing stain to any that comes contact with.