The Pampanga Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) has disapproved separate ordinances passed by the City of San Fernando and the Municipality of Sasmuan regulating feeding programs and medical and dental missions, citing legal, procedural, and constitutional deficiencies.

Acting on the recommendation of its Committee on Health, Nutrition and Sanitation, the provincial board voted to reject City of San Fernando Ordinance No. 2026-021 and Sasmuan Ordinance No. 09 during its regular session.

The committee found that the San Fernando ordinance, which covered privately funded feeding programs and medical and dental missions, could violate the Constitution’s equal protection clause by exempting government-sponsored activities. It also said the measure duplicated national regulations, imposed burdensome requirements on volunteer groups, and could discourage humanitarian and community-based initiatives.

The committee recommended revising the ordinance by applying health standards uniformly, simplifying requirements, providing exemptions during emergencies, and strengthening coordination with national government agencies.

Meanwhile, the SP disapproved Sasmuan’s ordinance after finding that it failed to comply with the publication requirement under the law and imposed a ₱5,000 fine exceeding the maximum amount allowed for municipalities under the Local Government Code. The board also noted that the measure regulated health services already covered by national laws.

The SP said its decision ensures that local ordinances remain consistent with the Constitution and existing national laws while protecting public health without placing unnecessary restrictions on volunteer and charitable activities.