The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Central Visayas has raised concerns about the dangers of children caroling on busy streets. On Wednesday, DSWD-7 regional director Shalaine Marie Lucero cautioned parents about the potential harm and legal repercussions of allowing their children to sing carols near moving vehicles. Lucero highlighted the risks involved, stressing that such activities could lead to serious accidents. She pointed out the existence of an inter-agency task force in Cebu City dedicated to combating mendicancy, which includes rescuing children engaged in begging or similar activities, such as caroling near traffic. Parents who permit their children to chase cars while caroling could be arrested under child abuse laws, Lucero warned. Meanwhile, the office of Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia noted that over 40 individuals have sought permits to carol in the city this Christmas season. The city is set to release guidelines for out-of-town residents interested in caroling. Additionally, the Cebu City Anti-Mendicancy Board reminded the public that caroling without a permit violates City Ordinance 1361, and those wishing to carol must secure the necessary permits.
