City of Manila imposes liquor ban amid COVID-19 crisis

MANILA, Philippines — The City of Manila has imposed a liquor ban amid the state of calamity in the Philippines due to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease  2019 (COVID-19) which has so far infected over 1,000 individuals nationwide.

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno has signed an executive order prohibiting the sale and distribution of  alcoholic drinks starting Monday, according to the Manila Public Information Office.

Moreno was dismayed over the reported violation of social distancing measures and curfew within the city.

“Kahapon may mga lasing, may mga nagka-karaoke pa, tambay sa kalsada, nagpaparty-party pa. Ngayon, para wala na kayong dahilan para makahanap ng alak,” the mayor said.

Businesses that will violate the said order will face appropriate sanctions and even the revocation of permits.

“Ipininagbabawal na po at binabawi pansamantala ang pribilehiyo sa mga tindahan na nagtitinda ng alak. Hindi na po kayo pwede magtinda ng alak bukas. Any violation shall lead to the revocation of Mayor’s and Business Permit,” Moreno warned.

He appealed for understanding from the public given the health crisis currently gripping the country.

“Uunawain ko kayo, pero hindi ko kayo papayagang makaperwisyo. Ayoko mabalewala ang sakripisyo ng nakararami dahil sa iilan,” he said.

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According to the Manila Public Information Office, Moreno’s recent directive was in line with the General Welfare Clause under the Local Government Code of 1991 which states that local government units can implement emergency measures in times of crisis or calamity.

Following the imposition of an enhanced community quarantine in Luzon early March, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country continues to rise.

To date, the Philippines has so far recorded 1,418 COVID-19 cases.

Of the number, 71 have died while 42 patients have recovered.

GSG