Liquor ban enforced in Bolinao for Holy Week

BOLINAO, Pangasinan — Visitors planning to spend Holy Week in this western Pangasinan town are advised not to bring alcoholic beverages, as a liquor ban will be in effect from April 16 to 20, 2025.

MUST-VISIT Built in the 17th century, St. James the Great Church in Bolinao, Pangasinan, is one of the oldest churches in the province. It is one of the town’s famous tourist attractions. PHOTO BY GABRIEL CARDINOZA

Mayor Alfonso Celeste issued an executive order last week prohibiting the sale and consumption of alcoholic drinks at all tourism sites and establishments during the period.

The order is part of the town's safety and crowd management preparations for the influx of tourists.

"Bringing liquor into public tourism establishments is strictly prohibited and will be subject to confiscation by the enforcing agency at any time," the executive order stated.

The Bolinao tourism office is expecting around 100,000 visitors during Holy Week, with tourists coming from the Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, National Capital Region, Calabarzon, and the Cordillera Administrative Region. The town also expects a number of foreign guests.

Popular tourist attractions include the Bolinao Falls, a group of three waterfalls in Barangay Samang Norte, Balingasay River with its floating restaurant, and the historic 120-year-old Cape Bolinao Lighthouse at Punta Piedra Point. Other destinations are the white-sand Patar Beach, Bolinao Caves, Camp Puor and River Village.

Cultural and educational landmarks also draw visitors, such as the 17th century St. James the Great Church and the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute's giant clam nursery located off Silaki Island.

In issuing the executive order, Celeste underscored the importance of ensuring public safety during the observance.

"Semana Santa (Holy Week) is not only a religious observance but also a crucial period for our tourism and local economy. We must work together to guarantee the well-being of everyone," he said.

The order also mandates all tourists to register at the municipal tourism office or designated outposts across tourist areas. Visitors are required to present a valid ID and pay a P40 environmental fee.

To prevent drowning incidents, night swimming will be prohibited between 6:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. at Bolinao Falls and all public and private beaches. Life vests are mandatory for those swimming or engaging in water-based activities.

Other regulations include a ban on tent-pitching and overnight stays at public beaches, falls, and other attractions. Smoking and vaping in public areas are also prohibited.

Pet owners must ensure their pets are caged while in public tourist areas and must wear full diapers at all times, both inside and outside these sites.