1 month ago
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CEBU CITY — Eight establishments here are facing the possible revocation of their business permits for breaching the liquor ban during the recent Sinulog Grand Parade and Ritual Showdown.
These businesses, situated along General Maxilom Avenue, were discovered serving alcohol shortly after midnight on Jan. 19, 2025. This violated the executive order that restricts the sale of alcohol within a 300-meter radius of the Sinulog Grand Parade route.
The violation was uncovered following inspections led by the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) in coordination with the local police and other city government teams.
According to the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), officers discovered that the establishments were still serving alcohol beyond the imposed cutoff hour. The BPLO is giving the eight business establishments three days to explain their actions.
Should their explanations fail to convince authorities, the business establishments may face harsh penalties, including the possible revocation of their business permits.
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LtCol. Maria Theresa Macatangay, deputy city director for operations, explained that the establishments claimed the drinks were sold before 12:01 a.m., but the consumption continued beyond the restricted time.
She said that the executive order holds the business establishments accountable for alcohol consumed on their premises during prohibited hours, regardless of when the drinks were sold.
Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia's executive order is designed to maintain order during the Sinulg festivities by banning both alcohol sales and loud entertainment activities along key parade routes, Macatangay said.
However, businesses within the restricted zones can host events outside the restricted hours if they obtain a special permit from the BPLO.
Garcia reaffirmed his position that the permits of the establishments involved would be revoked if their explanations were unsatisfactory. Authorities will carefully review their responses, with the mayor stressing that no leniency would be shown to violators.
Authorities had deployed plainclothes officers to inspect businesses within the restricted areas, checking for alcohol sales.
During the Sinulog event, no major incidents were reported, showing the success of both proactive measures and collaboration between local law enforcement and city officials to ensure a smooth and safe celebration.
