Observe liquor ban or face arrest

CEBU, Philippines —  Owners of restaurants and other food establishments in Cebu City’s upland areas are warned to strictly observe the liquor ban, otherwise they will face arrest.

Wilbert Parilla, deputy director for operations at the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), said they received reports about drinking sessions in the highlands, especially on weekends.

“Dia  na sa bukid ang mga imnanan,” said Parilla.

CCPO did not disclose where exactly these areas are, but a source said it is in Busay, the home to mountain cafes and restos and drinking spots overlooking the city.

Following the report, Parilla said cops have been monitoring these areas.

Parilla appealed to the public to avoid drinking in public places.

"So atong awhagon ang atong mga kaigsuonan diha sa bukid nga undangon lang usa, atong sundon ang mando sa atong mayor," he added.

Mayor Edgardo Labella issued an executive order re-implementing the liquor ban, which started on February 3.

“It shall be prohibited for any person, including owners and managers of hotels, resorts, restaurants, convenience stores, sari-sari stores and other establishments to serve and/or drink intoxicating liquor in any public place within the City of Cebu for the entire duration of any form of community quarantine,” reads Executive Order No. 117.

But the EO exempts hotels, resorts and other accommodation establishments. They are allowed to serve liquor only for their in-house guests, pursuant to prevailing guidelines from the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). — KQD (FREEMAN)