MANILA, Philippines -- Mayor Alfredo Lim on Monday ordered the removal of stages along the Baywalk because the "loud music" disturbed foreign visitors in the city for the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) ministerial meeting.

"I heard complaints from those delegates billeted at the Diamond Hotel that they haven't slept for several nights already. We will remove the stages where those bands play because they do not have permits," said Lim, who went to the first day of the regional conference.

At least 1,500 delegates from different countries are attending the ASEAN meeting at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) until August 2.

The mayor, however, said he was also acting on the protests of Malate residents who have long been protesting the noise coming from the bars and restaurants on the Baywalk.

He directed Manila City Hall Police Office chief Alejandro Gutierrez to serve notice to the owners of the bars to stop the performances.

In the middle of the month, Lim said he will crack down on all Baywalk establishments operating without the necessary permits -- whether or not they sell liquor.

Lim earlier announced that he would ban the selling of alcohol on the Baywalk based on a city ordinance prohibiting drinking in public places.