Cockfighting, horse racing, jai-alai prohibited on Rizal Day

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang on Monday reminded the public that cockfighting, horse racing and jai-alai are prohibited on Rizal Day.

Republic Act (RA) 229 or "An act to prohibit cockfighting, horse racing and jai-alai on the 30th day of December of each year and to create a committee to take charge of the proper celebration of Rizal Day in every municipality and chartered city and for other purposes" was approved last June 9, 1948.

Under the Act, the mayor of a municipality or chartered city is tasked to create a committee that would take charge of the observance of the celebration of Rizal Day every year.

December 30 is a declared national holiday in observance of the martyrdom of the country's national hero,  Dr. Jose Rizal.

All national flags in public places are required to be raised  in half mast during Rizal Day.

Those who will violate the provisions of RA 229 will be punished by a fine of not more than P200 or by imprisonment not exceeding six months.

"In case he is the mayor of a municipality or a chartered city he shall suffer an additional punishment of suspension from his office for a period of one month," the provision added.

In the case of partnerships, corporations or associations, the president, director or any other official responsible will take the criminal liability of the violation.

Meanwhile, the Official Gazette announced on Monday that free rides will be available at the LRT-1, LRT-2 and MRT-3 from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday.