IMPLEMENTATION OF ORDINANCE NO. 0397S, 2005 PROHIBITING THE SALE OF ALCOHOL TO MINORS IN AMPARO SUBDIVISION, CALOOCAN CITY

Abstract

"Ang bata pa lang, lasinggera na.” (“So young, yet already a drunkard.”) These were the harsh words overheard by one of the researchers while she was purchasing alcohol for her father, a known habitual drinker. Although this was a common chore, the comment from a neighbor sparked curiosity and concern in the young girl, prompting her to question what it means to be a “lasinggera” (drunkard) and why such a label could be so easily placed on someone young.  This study was inspired by that experience and aims to highlight the effects of parental neglect and the irresponsible sale of alcohol to minors by vendors in sari-sari and convenience stores. Specifically, it seeks to assess the implementation of Ordinance No. 0397, Series of 2005, which prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages to minors in Amparo Subdivision, Caloocan City. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of this ordinance and to understand the roles and responsibilities of both parents and vendors in protecting minors from alcohol consumption. This study employed a purposive sampling technique and adopted a descriptive research design. The respondents included 20 parents, 20 minors, 10 store owners, and 10 law enforcers residing in Barangay Amparo, Caloocan City. The researchers secured an approval letter from the Dean's Office of the School of Criminology at Bestlink College of the Philippines, San Agustin Campus, authorizing the administration of a survey questionnaire. A formal request to conduct the survey was also submitted to and approved by the Barangay Captain. Participation in the study was voluntary, and all responses were handled with strict confidentiality to ensure the privacy and protection of the participants. The study on Ordinance No. 0397-S, 2005, which prohibits the sale of alcohol to minors, revealed that the majority of respondents (33.33%) were aged 12 to 17, with an equal gender distribution of 50% male and 50% female. The research evaluated public awareness, enforcement practices, and the application of penalties associated with the ordinance. While respondents generally agreed that the ordinance is being effectively implemented, the most commonly reported issue was the lack of community outreach programs. To address this, the study recommends conducting a comprehensive assessment of the ordinance to identify areas that require improvement and to enhance public engagement and education efforts. The researchers recommend strengthening public awareness and enforcing the strict implementation of Ordinance No. 0397, Series of 2005, which regulates the sale, service, and consumption of alcoholic beverages within designated areas in Caloocan City.