By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Task Force on Moral and Values Formation (TFMVF) in Iloilo City is ramping up its monitoring of lodging houses, motels, and beach resorts ahead of Valentine’s Day to ensure minors are not allowed entry into these establishments.
“We have reminded owners, supervisors, and room attendants of the necessary protocols during our rounds,” TFMVF head Nestor Canong said in a local radio interview.
The team has also urged security personnel to remain vigilant.
“In a taxi, the windows are clear, so you can immediately see the driver, the passenger, and even the back. What we ask from security guards is that when vehicles arrive at the driveway and stop, they should ask passengers to roll down their windows to check if anyone appears to be a minor,” Canong explained.
In cases where individuals look underage, even if they are of legal age, security personnel are instructed to ask for identification.
“However, if someone appears to be underage and cannot present an ID, we politely ask them not to enter,” Canong added.
Under Regulation Ordinance 2015-447, establishments that violate the law by admitting minors may face penalties or have their business permits revoked.
Additionally, legal action will be taken against adults caught accompanying minors into these establishments.
To further strengthen monitoring efforts, the TFMVF has activated a community watch group to assist in surveillance.
Canong emphasized that the task force’s inspections will continue after Valentine’s Day as part of its routine monitoring of accommodation establishments.
The initiative aims to protect minors from threats and exploitation, particularly by sexual predators.
