SJ dad seeks crackdown on ‘pirates’

A San Juan City councilor has filed an ordinance seeking to penalize anyone caught selling pirated compact discs, digital video discs and other pirated products in the city.

Councilor Dante Santiago said under his proposed ordinance, violators will be fined P2,500 jailed for up to six months, or both.

He said the business permit or licenses of any establishment that will allow the sale of pirated CDs, DVDs and other goods shall either be revoked or suspended for a period of not more than 10 days for the first violation; 30 days for the second violation and cancellation for third offense.

Santiago said that mere possession of the banned articles of merchandise in the business establishment can be a ground to penalize the owner.     

He said the president, director, manager, trustee, estate administrator, or officer who consents to or knowingly tolerates the selling of pirates CDs, DVDs and other products shall be included as co-principal. – Jose Rodel Clapano