The local government of Quezon City has issued an ordinance directing barangays to set up “art expression” walls as a way to curb vandalism and create a platform for artistic individuals to express themselves.

Under the new ordinance, the barangays were directed to designate an art expression wall to be registered with the Barangay Community and Relation Department which is subject to the approval of the City Hall.

“Those interested in using or painting something on the said expression wall, must first coordinate with the barangay where the wall is located, for proper scheduling of activities and to prevent chaos,” part of the ordinance read.

“Persons qualified and approved by the barangays to paint on the said walls shall use non-toxic lead-free paint,” it added.

The ordinance also provides that paintings and artworks will remain on the wall for a maximum period of three months to give other artists a chance to use the designated walls and it added that no political artworks will be allowed during election periods.

“The barangays may take down or erase the art painted if it will cause unreasonable damage to the peace and order of the community,” according to the ordinance.

“Painting on surfaces other than the designated art expression wall shall constitute as vandalism and/or defacement of walls and offenders shall be apprehended and penalized accordingly for violating existing anti-vandalism ordinances,” it added.