BAGUIO CITY – Close to 200 business establishments at Session Road and Gov. Pack Road were subjected to sanitary inspections in the first of the massive operations carried out starting last Oct. 1 by the Environmental Health and Sanitation Division of the City Health Services Office.
This was in line with the order of Mayor Benjamin Magalong on the strict implementation of the Sanitation Code with focus on maintaining clean and well-equipped restrooms across the city.
Sanitation Division Chief Engr. Albert Pay-an said that of the 199 establishments inspected, 127 were found fully compliant with the sanitary provisions stipulated in Presidential Decree 856.
Meanwhile, 72 establishments were found to be in violation of sanitation standards and were consequently issued sanitary orders to address their deficiencies.
Apart from the condition of toilet and handwashing facilities, sanitation inspectors also checked on the establishments’ compliance with laws and requirements on food preparation and service, drinking water quality and proper waste storage.
The sale of “pasalubong” or local delicacies was also examined ensuring that all food products had proper labeling, valid expiration dates and were sold in safe condition.
Compliance with business permit requirements was also considered.
Pay-an said establishment owners and managers have been advised to strictly adhere to the Sanitation Code, which mandates safe food handling procedures, availability of potable water, adequate hygiene facilities, and consistent sanitary maintenance within their premises.
Complementary inspections were also being done by the Public Order and Safety Division (POSD) which included monitoring of the upkeep of the store frontage and premises pursuant to the anti-littering ordinance of the city.
The activity will continue to ensure sustained compliance to the sanitation code.
The move is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to raise sanitation standards and promote a healthier environment for residents and tourists. ( Aileen P. Refuerzo-Baguio PIO)
