Mayor Sara Duterte has ordered for the temporary suspension on the issuance of permits for sign structures in the city.
On March 4, Duterte signed Executive Order No. 07, “temporarily suspending building permit on sign structures, sign permit on display signs, and the renewal/extension of permits, on all free-standing/stand alone signs within the city of Davao.”
The issuance of the executive order stems from the “rampant proliferation of illegal free-standing/stand alone signs and sign structures along the thoroughfares of Davao City” that violates Davao City Ordinace No.92, series of 2000, and Presidential Decree No. 1096 (National Building Code).
“There is a need to strictly implement the provisions of Davao City Ordinance No. 092, which prohibits, among others, the construction of sign or signboard which unduly obstruct the natural view of the scenic landscape, including Mt. Apo and Davao Gulf, Davao River, Samal Island…,” the EO reads.
The existing ordinance also prohibits placing of sign stands, on sidewalk pavements, parks, and street islands, sign which obstruct the view or interpretation of any public sign or device, obstruct the sight, distract the attention of motorists, reflect blinding light or cause glare to incoming traffic, and construction in residential zones and other restricted areas.
“Davao City Ordinance No. 92, Series of 2000 or the Signage Ordinance of Davao City was enacted pursuant to Section 458 (3)(iv) of RA 7160, which empowers the Sangguniang Panglungsod to regulate the display of and fix the license fees for signs, signboards, or billboards at the place, or places where the profession or business advertised thereby, is, in whole or in part, conducted,” the mayor said in the executive order.
The EO mandates the temporary suspension of the issuance of new permit on sign structures; new permit on display signs; and renewal or extension of permit on display signs. This suspension of permit applies to free-standing/stand-alone signs.
A city-wide inspection will also be conducted to inspect the city building structures and signs to determine if they are in compliance with the National Building Code, the Signage Ordinance of Davao City, and with the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance of Davao City.
The City Engineer’s Office, on the other hand, is directed to remove, upon the recommendation of the City Building Official, “at the expense of the displaying party,” all free-standing/ stand-alone sign structures and signs constructed or installed should these (signs) be found violating the aforementioned laws.
The City Legal Office together with other concerned offices, will “institute appropriate cases against all persons determined to have violated existing ordinances and laws.”
