REQUIREMENT

According to Arch. Maria Conception Alcantara, OIC of the Office of the Building Official, the provision of comfort rooms is required by the National Building Code and is a requisite for the issuance of business permits.

She said the OBO conducted random inspections and found that banks, gasoline stations and 7/11 stores have comfort rooms but refuse to let the public use these facilities for security reasons.

Councilor Goking stressed that security should not be an excuse for this violation. He said establishments should find ways to improve the location of their comfort rooms.

He added that senior citizens are protected by law and should be given priority.

“It is just an appeal, if we hear another complaint, we will be forced to give you another friendly advice,” Goking added.

According to the City Legal Office, sanctions can be imposed against establishments found violating the law.