QC to require special cashier counters in malls

MANILA, Philippines - The Quezon City council has approved on third and final reading this week an ordinance that will require malls, groceries, and other business establishments to have a priority cashier lanes for pregnant women, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The ordinance, which has yet to be signed into law by Mayor Herbert Bautista, said the city government sees the necessity of extending the privilege of special lanes for senior citizens to pregnant women and PWDs. The measure was authored by third district Councilor Don de Leon.

Once enacted, all existing malls, groceries, and other business establishments in the city will be required to designate special cashiers.

Establishments that will violate the measure will be fined P5,000 on the first offense, and P5,000 and possible revocation of the business permit on the second offense.

The business permits and licensing office will be tasked to monitor, inspect, and secure the strict implementation of the ordinance.