BY ADRIAN P. NEMES III
Drinking of alcoholic liquor in restaurants, hotels, and similar dine-in establishments in Bacolod City is now allowed from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia has signed Executive Order No. 3, series of 2021, in an attempt to revitalize businesses in the city, especially those involved in tourism.
But Leonardia stressed that the order does not include beerhouses, nightclubs, karaoke bars, and other establishments that primarily sell liquor.
He said that the prohibition is in accordance with the order of the National Inter-Agency Task Force that the city adopted as an ordinance.
Considering the continuing threat of Covid-19, restaurants and other similar establishments are urged to enforce the strict observance of minimum health protocols by all customers and employees, Leonardia also said.
Earlier, Roberto Magalona, director of the Hotel and Restaurants Association of Negros Occidental, appealed to the city to spare them from the ongoing partial liquor ban, that states that selling of liquor is allowed from noon to 6 p.m. only, and consumption should be in private residences.
Magalona said liquor served in restaurants and hotels are just side-drinks, adding that customers immediately leave after dining.
Leonardia also clarified that the time for the purchase, sale, and consumption of liquors in private residences should remain from noon to 6 p.m.
The mayor warned that appropriate penalties will be imposed on individuals and establishments caught violating the partial liquor ban.*
