CEBU, Philippines - A limited ban on the sale of liquor in Iloilo City was raised by Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) Director Remus Zacharias Canieso.
Canieso believed it would help decrease the incidents of criminality and, even, vehicular accidents if stores, restaurants, and other similar establishments would not sell liquor after 12 midnight.
He cited that a good number of vehicular accidents and crimes against persons were committed because those involved are under the influence of liquor.
"It's not as if we're totally banning liquor. I think drinking until 12 midnight is enough. There's always the next day to have a good bottle of beer and the likes," he said.
The idea on the ban on liquor sale after 12 midnight was brought up by the senior citizens' group during the regular meeting of the Iloilo City Peace and Order Council (ICPOC), Canieso said. "And I think, it's one of the ways to lessen crime incidents and vehicular accidents," he added.
Based on ICPO records from January to June, 2017, there were 2,389 traffic accidents/incidents in Iloilo City. Of the number, 2,529 were due to human error while 158 occurred because the drivers were under the influence of liquor.
On the other hand, 90 incidents happened due to mechanical trouble while 62 were blamed on the road condition. Most of the accidents happened in Jaro, City Proper, and Mandurriao districts.
Canieso revealed that a good number of crimes against persons (murder, homicide, and physical injuries) also happened because the suspects are also under the influence of liquor.
He however said the plan is still subject for assessment and will be up in the hands of the Iloilo City Council whether to pass a corresponding ordinance for such purpose.
In the past, though, some liquor companies were not bothered about the liquor ban citing that "drinkers" should adjust accordingly by stockpiling liquor and just consumed it in the confines of their own homes. (FREEMAN)