30/07/2025
THE "COMMONSE SENSE" ORDINANCE
(The Ordinance to use the Common Sense Within You)
"An Ordinance Promoting the Daily Practice of Common Sense in Public and Private Behavior to Foster a More Respectful, Orderly, and Considerate Society."
Section 1: Rationale
Whereas, it has been observed that many everyday problems in our society stem not from lack of education or rules, but from the simple failure to apply common sense.
Whereas, in the spirit of unity (bayanihan), empathy, and mutual respect, this ordinance aims to encourage all citizens to use their basic sense of awareness, logic, and courtesy in dealing with one another, especially in public spaces.
Section 2: Scope
This ordinance applies to all individuals, whether locals or visitors, within the jurisdiction of the city. It is expected that all citizens, regardless of social status, age, or background, must exercise common sense in daily actions.
Section 3: Situations Where Common Sense Must Be Practiced
During Rainy Days:
Drivers must slow down when passing near pedestrians and puddles. Splashing people is not just rude โ itโs careless.
Pedestrians should avoid walking in the middle of the road holding umbrellas like parade shields.
In Public Transportation (e.g., Jeepney, UV Express, Bus):
If youโre seated by the aisle, help pass the fare to the driver. Donโt pretend you didnโt see the outstretched hand.
Give way to the elderly, PWDs, or pregnant women. Buntis, hindi body armor.
In Public Markets and Grocery Stores:
Donโt cut in line. Everyone is tired and hungry too.
Donโt touch every vegetable or fruit with bare hands if youโre not buying it.
Online Behavior:
Before sharing a post, check if itโs true. Not everything on Facebook is gospel truth.
Think before you comment. Being online is not a license to be disrespectful.
Garbage Disposal:
If the trash can is full, donโt add more. Use your eyes and find another one.
Segregate. The signs are not for decoration.
Neighborhood Etiquette:
Lower your karaoke volume after 10 PM. Your neighbors donโt need to hear your high notes at midnight.
When parking, make sure your car isnโt blocking someone else's gate. Youโre not the only one who lives in the barangay.
In Government Offices and Public Services:
Read signs before asking questions. If it says โStep 1: Get Form,โ please do that first.
Respect frontliners. Theyโre following the same system you are stuck in.
Basic Public Hygiene:
You donโt need to see a sign that says "Bawal Umihi" or "Bawal Dumura" to know itโs wrong.
If it's not a restroom or a spitting area, donโt do it. Use your eyes. Use your common sense.
Section 4: Implementation & Encouragement
The city government shall launch a campaign titled "Gamitin ang Ulo, Hindi Init ng Ulo", featuring posters, social media reminders, and barangay seminars to promote common sense. Citizens are encouraged to gently remind each other with phrases like:
โKuya, baka pwedeng gamitan natin ng konting common sense.โ
โAte, para sa ikabubuti ng lahat, gamitin natin ang utak, hindi ang pride.โ
Section 5: Non-Penal Provisions
This ordinance is not punitive, but reminder-driven. However, repeat offenses may be subject to public education sessions, community service, or being asked to say sorry sincerely in front of the barangay hall (yes, with eye contact).
This ordinance exists not to shame, but to remind us that courtesy, logic, and kindness are still free โ and when practiced together, can make our cities cleaner, kinder, and more livable.
