Mandaluyong City lifts liquor ban
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MANILA, Philippines – The Mandaluyong City government is lifting the liquor ban enforced in the city during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) in a bid to revive the local liquor industry hit hard by government restrictions amid the pandemic.
In Ordinance No. 826 S-2021, the lifting of the prohibition covers the sale and delivery of alcohol, wine, beer, liquor, and other intoxicating beverages which are sold in sari-sari stores, convenience stores, and groceries, provided that the said establishments will observe health protocols mandated by the government.
The city government said the liquor ban “greatly affected the liquor industry,” particularly the livelihood of individuals depending on it.
“(A)nd after three months of hiatus due to the recent strict imposition of strict GCQ (General Community Quarantine) in NCR Plus bubble, ECQ, and MECQ, there is a need to assist local industries, like liquor to thrive in their businesses and contribute in refueling our economy,” the city government said through the order.
“This ordinance shall take effect immediately upon approval, and shall remain in full force and effect during the period of Enhanced Community Quarantine and Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine imposed by the National Government at the City of Mandaluyong,” it added.
The ordinance said Mandaluyong Mayor Carmelita “Menchie” Abalos recommended the suspension of the liquor ban, which was previously mandated to only be lifted once the city is downgraded to a GCQ.
In case a spike of COVID-19 cases occur in Mandaluyong, however, Abalos has the authority to reimpose the liquor ban and provide penalties or impose additional conditions.
Mandaluyong has a total of 14,215 COVID-19 cases as of May 5, with 1,073 active cases, 363 deaths, and 12,779 recoveries.
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