Ilocos Norte imposes Ompong liquor ban

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The provincial government has imposed a liquor ban in Ilocos Norte “to mitigate the effects” of Typhoon Ompong.

 Under Executive Order 439, selling, giving and serving of intoxicating drinks is prohibited during the onslaught of the typhoon to ensure that everyone is on alert. Violators face will be punished.

The ban is in effect until the typhoon exits the Philippine area of responsibility.

The provincial government also ordered the preemptive evacuation of residents in vulnerable areas.