Sinulog 2018: Tom to close shops violating liquor ban

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City government will not hesitate to close down business establishments that would violate the liquor ban and other policies that would be implemented for Sinulog 2018.

Mayor Tomas Osmeña, in a press conference, assured businesses though that the city government would still observe due process before closing down their stores.

"They should know that there is always a due process in shutting them down, ten days show cause order,” Osmeña said.

In the show cause order, business owners would need to justify why the city government should not close down their shops.

He said that entrepreneurs should understand this policy so that the Sinulog festivity would be peaceful and orderly unlike the previous celebrations.

"That's the purpose of penalty, people follow because of fear. That's why penalties cannot be affordable," Osmeña said.

As of press time, the mayor has yet to sign the executive order regulating stores from selling alcoholic beverages during the Sinulog festival next year.

As to the possible changes on the policy, Osmeña said he will leave it up to Councilor David Tumulak, who chairs the City Council committee on public order and safety.

"It's up to the boss.  The boss is Dave Tumulak, he is the conductor of the orchestra," Osmeña said.

At present, Tumulak has yet to talk to the mayor on the implementation of the executive order (EO).

Under the proposed EO, business establishment are only allowed to sell liquors inside their premises on Jan. 19 and 20.

By Jan. 21, during the Sinulog Grand Parade, these firms will be totally prohibited from selling alcoholic beverages whether inside or outside their establishments.

The EO further provides that entertainment ban will be implemented within the 300-meter radius of the Sinulog parade and procession route on Jan. 19, 20 and 21.

These activities include concerts, shows, performances, gigs, recitals, events, street parties, among others.

The city government decided to impose this policy after observing that the crowd during Sinulog becomes rowdy after taking alcoholic beverages at street parties. (FREEMAN)