Makati bans drinking liquor in public as virus restrictions remain

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MANILA - Makati City will prohibit liquor consumption in public during the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergencies beginning July 14, its mayor said Tuesday.

The Makati City Council approved the ordinance as bars in the city continued to operate by hosting "private dining and drinking parties," Mayor Abigail Binay said in a statement.

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"We're clamping down on these types of gatherings where it's difficult, if not impossible, to enforce social distancing,” she said.

“Drinking in the confines of one’s own home is safer, but it’s best to avoid drinking altogether during a crisis,” she added.

Guests at hotels, apartments, dormitories, and bed spaces are allowed to drink inside their own rooms.

“The city government understands the desire of business owners to earn and survive amidst the pandemic, but it shouldn't be at the expense of public health," Binay said.

First time violators will be fined P5,000 while repeat offenders will be penalized with the same amount and/or face imprisonment.

Minors who violate the ordinance for the first time will be placed under the custody of the barangay chairman or social worker before being released to his parent or legal guardian.

Both the parent and child will undergo counselling through the city social welfare department (CSWD). Failure to comply will cause the suspension of benefits from the city government.

Parents or guardians of repeat minor offenders will be fined P5,000 or imprisoned for not more than a month, or both. The child and the parent will undergo rehabilitation programs under the CSWD.