The Mandaue City Government plans to set up a dedicated graffiti wall where fraternities, gangs, and street artists can legally express themselves, part of an effort to reduce vandalism across the city.
City officials held a meeting with fraternity leaders on Thursday, March 5, urging their cooperation in addressing the increasing number of vandalized walls in key areas.
The meeting was led by Mandaue City Administrator Atty. Sally Malig-on Jr. and Executive Secretary Atty. Riczen Gingoyon.
The initiative follows the directive of Mayor Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano, who aims to maintain the city’s cleanliness and prepare Mandaue for the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in May, which will host prime ministers and other foreign delegates.
“Vandalism has worsened in various parts of the city, particularly on walls along major roads, creating an unsightly environment,” Ouano said.
“We are asking fraternities, sororities, gangs, the City Social Welfare Services Office (CSWS), and the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) for their cooperation. This is our city, and we hope they can help monitor and reduce vandalism.”
As part of the plan, officials agreed to designate specific graffiti walls where artists can paint freely without defacing public or private property.
The move aims to provide a controlled outlet for artistic expression while protecting the city’s public spaces.
During the ASEAN Tourism Forum in January, officials from the Department of Tourism noted numerous vandalized walls in Mandaue City, highlighting the need for proactive measures before international guests arrive.
“Ganahan lang ko nga ma-ready ta daan before muduol na ang Mayo,” Ouano said.
The Mandaue City Council is also reviewing Ordinance No. 11-2008-482, or the Anti-Vandalism Ordinance, with plans to amend it to impose stricter penalties.
Ouano noted that current sanctions are too light, especially when minors are involved, and often result in the immediate release of those responsible after parental intervention.
“We are trying to amend that para mahimong stricter,” he said, adding that the proposed amendment is set for second reading on Monday, March 9.
The mayor emphasized that addressing vandalism requires cooperation from local groups, particularly fraternities, and that it is a long-term effort.
He acknowledged that cleaned walls are sometimes vandalized again, highlighting the challenges in maintaining a clean city.
“This is a delicate action. Dili ni dali mahitabo in just a few months, but we are trying our best nga mu-tone down lang,” he said. “Bisan asa, even in first-world countries, namroblema man gani sila aning vandalism. But here, we will work closely with the community.”
Ouano added that the city’s goal is to at least minimize vandalism along roads that ASEAN delegates are expected to pass, ensuring the city presents a cleaner and more orderly image during the international event. (VCL)
