Cebu City Now Requires a Permit for Caroling
CEBU CITY – Caroling without a permit is now prohibited in the Queen City of the South, with violators facing fines.
Caroling is a cherished Filipino holiday tradition, where groups of children, teens, and adults sing Christmas songs like “Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit” and “Pasko Na Naman” from house to house. The tradition starts on December 16, aligning with the Christmas novena, and continues until Christmas Eve.
Carolers often use simple instruments like tambourines or clap and stomp for rhythm. After performing, they chant, “Thank you, thank you, ang babait ninyo,” and receive small tokens of gratitude, such as coins or snacks. For many, caroling is about spreading joy and embodying the Filipino value of “bayanihan,” or community spirit.
In Cebu City, a new regulation has been introduced that prohibits caroling without first securing a permit. This measure falls under the city’s Anti-Mendicancy Ordinance, which aims to ensure public order and prevent disturbances during the holiday season. According to Lucelle Mercado, the chair of the Anti-Mendicancy Board, individuals or groups who wish to go caroling are required to obtain a permit from the Business Process Licensing Office. This step is being implemented to maintain an organized and controlled environment, especially in public spaces, as large groups of carolers could potentially cause disruptions or inconvenience to the community.
Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia emphasized that obtaining the caroling permit is completely free of charge, assuring the public that this requirement would not be a financial burden. However, the city has established fines for violators who fail to comply with the new rule. A first offense will result in a fine of PHP 1,000 or community service. Repeat offenders will face escalating penalties, with a fine of PHP 1,500 for a second offense and PHP 2,000 for a third offense.