Cebu town bans kite flying; tightens regulation on drone flights

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TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Summer will no longer be the same again next year in Cordova town, Cebu as residents will no longer be able to fly kites anywhere within the municipality as decreed by a local ordinance aimed at protecting aviation operations, public infrastructure and road users.

The Sangguniang Bayan of Cordova unanimously passed Ordinance No. 2026-030, known as the “Cordova Comprehensive Anti-Kite Flying, CCLEX Aerial Safety, and Aviation Security Ordinance” that was firmed up.

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The ordinance prohibits kite flying throughout the municipality and imposes restrictions on drones, balloons, model aircraft, and other aerial objects, particularly near the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and areas covered by airport flight paths.

Local officials said the measure was adopted to prevent incidents that could endanger aircraft, damage infrastructure, or create hazards for motorists. The ordinance specifically seeks to protect air traffic operating within the vicinity of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and safeguard the CCLEX from risks posed by airborne objects.

Under the new rules, flying kites is banned in all barangays of Cordova. The operation of captive balloons, model airplanes, moored balloons, unmanned rockets, and unmanned free balloons is likewise prohibited within a 500-meter radius of the CCLEX.

The ordinance also outlaws the use of metallic strings, nylon lines, and other conductive materials in aerial activities due to potential dangers to power lines and public utilities.

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To strengthen aviation safety, the measure prohibits the use of laser lights, laser pointers, and searchlights directed toward aircraft, established flight paths, or motorists traveling on the CCLEX.

Mass balloon releases during public events and promotional activities are also banned because of the risks they may pose to aircraft engines.

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Drone operations within the CCLEX vicinity will be allowed only under strict conditions. Operators must first secure permits from the municipal government, ensure registration of their drones, maintain insurance coverage, and comply with prescribed altitude and flight restrictions.

The ordinance further provides that drone flights within a six-kilometer radius of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Benito Ebuen Air Base require prior clearance from aviation authorities.

Violators face fines of P500 for a first offense, P1,000 for a second offense, and P2,500 and/or imprisonment of up to six months for a third offense. Confiscation of the prohibited object will also be imposed. Parents or legal guardians will be held responsible for fines involving violations committed by minors.

Enforcement will be carried out by the Cordova municipal police station, authorized municipal personnel, barangay officials, and barangay tanods.

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The ordinance was authored by Councilor Lemuel W. Pogoy and approved by Mayor Cesar E. Suan last month. /jpv