The Bacolod City government on Monday, June 22, warned business establishments against selling “rugby” glue and other volatile substances to minors without written parental or guardian consent.
The warning, which also strictly prohibits the sale of paint thinner, acetone, gasoline, and kerosene to children, comes amid a visible rise in inhalant abuse among youth in the city.
City Administrator Mark Mayo issued a memorandum directing the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) to strictly enforce City Ordinance No. 328, Series of 2003.
The memorandum to strictly enforce the ordinance that bans the sale of dangerous inhalants to minors was prompted by an increasing number of children seen openly sniffing solvents in public places, even in broad daylight, Mayo said.
Rugby and similar contact cements contain toluene, a highly toxic chemical solvent. When inhaled, the fumes pass instantly through the lungs into the bloodstream and rush straight to the brain, inducing a rapid and dangerous high within seconds.
Under the ordinance, business owners are reminded to exercise strict responsibility when selling hazardous products.
Establishments must refuse sales to minors and actively verify the age of purchasers if necessary.
Mayo warned that businesses caught violating the ordinance face severe penalties, including the revocation of their business permits and the immediate closure of their establishments.
The City Administrator also called on parents and guardians to cooperate with local authorities and help the city protect children.*
[sibwp_form id=1]