The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Oriental Mindoro has approved on first reading a proposed ordinance seeking to regulate the posting of advertisements on trees in the province.

The measure seeks to protect trees in both public and private lands from the harmful effects of nailing or posting billboards and other outdoor advertisements, including election paraphernalia, said Vice-Governor Estee Aceron.

The “Tree Protection Ordinance of Oriental Mindoro” has been referred to the SP committee on environment and natural resources for deliberation, Aceron said.

She said the proposed measure also aims to raise the awareness of people in the province on their responsibility to protect the environment.

Violators could face up to 30 days in jail and a fine of P2,000 to P5,000.

The ordinance will still go through a series of hearings and deliberations at the Sanggunian before it could be approved on second and third reading. It will then be transmitted to the governor for signing to become a provincial law.