QC lifts liquor ban but gives restrictions

MANILA, Philippines — A day after Pasay City relaxed its liquor ban, Quezon City, too, followed suit as the local government announced that it would lift its order on the prohibition on the consumption and selling of alcoholic drinks.

In Executive Order No. 31, which was signed by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and released on Friday, it read that all persons and establishments with valid Liquor License Regulatory Board (LLRB) are now allowed to sell and distribute liquor during the period of modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

However, residents, as well as retailers, are only allowed to buy and sell liquor from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The order also indicated that High-Volume Retailers (e.g. supermarkets, groceries) and Low-Volume Retailers (sari-sari stores, kiosks) must limit the amount of alcoholic beverage.

Those who wish to purchase alcoholic beverages must also present a government-issued ID if the purpose is for personal consumption, or valid Business Permits and Licensing Department-issued permit if he/she intends to resale or redistribute the alcoholic drinks.

The city order also reads that consumption of liquor of any kind must only be done in private residences during the duration of the MECQ.

The order shall take effect on May 16, the first day of the MECQ period imposed over Metro Manila.

“Any person, entity, or establishment found to be in violation of the provisions of this Order shall be meted sanctions, including but not limited to, closure, suspension or revocation of its permit or license, or in the case of unlawful consumption, possible arrest, and the filing of criminal charges under Republic Act No. 11332, or any applicable law or ordinance,” the city order read.

Previously, Pasay City relaxed its liquor ban, citing “economic reasons” as well as to aid anxious residents during the quarantine period.

Metro Manila will be under a period of MECQ starting May 16 due to rising cases of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases.

Currently, the Philippines has 12,091COVID-19 cases, with 2,460 recoveries and 806 deaths.