Manila imposes liquor ban amid enhanced community quarantine

The city government of Manila on Monday imposed a temporary liquor ban amid the enhanced community quarantine being implemented in Luzon due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) threat.

According to the Manila Public Information Office, Mayor Isko Moreno had inked an executive order which prohibits selling any alcoholic beverages starting March 30.

Moreno was dismayed over some Manila residents who were not following the government's rules banning mass gatherings due to the mandatory quarantine.

"Kahapon may mga lasing, may mga nagka-karaoke pa, tambay sa kalsada, nagpaparty-party pa. Ngayon, para wala na kayong dahilan para makahanap ng alak," Moreno said.

Those who will be caught selling alcoholic drinks will be sanction, Moreno ensured, adding that businesses permits of those sellers who will not follow could be revoked.

"Ipininagbabawal na po at binabawi pansamantala ang pribilehiyo sa mga tindahan na nagtitinda ng alak. Hindi na po kayo pwede magtinda ng alak bukas. Any violation shall lead to the revocation of Mayor's and Business Permit," Moreno warned.

Moreno further advised Manila residents to follow the guidelines imposed by the government amid the present public health emergency.

As of March 29, the City of Manila recorded 55 confirmed COVID-19 cases in its area while the number of persons under investigation was 224.