Republic Act No. 229

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippine Congress Assembled:

Section 1

The existing laws and regulations to the contrary notwithstanding, cockfighting, horse racing and jai-alai are hereby prohibited on the thirtieth day of December of each year, the date of the martyrdom of our great hero, Jose Rizal.

Section 2

It shall be the official duty of the mayor of each municipality and chartered city to create a committee to take charge of the proper observance of Rizal Day Celebration of each year, in which he shall be the chairman, which shall be empowered to seek the assistance and cooperation of any department, bureau, office, agency or instrumentality of the Government, and the local civic and educational institutions. Among the ceremonies on Rizal Day shall be the raising of the Philippine flag at half mast in all vessels and public buildings.

Section 3

Any person who shall violate the provisions of this Act or permit or allow the violation thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not exceeding two hundred pesos or by imprisonment not exceeding six months, or both, at the discretion of the court. 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. In case of partnerships, corporations or associations, the criminal liability shall devolve upon the president, director, or any other official responsible for the violation thereof.

Section 4

This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Approved: June 9, 1948.