The Bacolod City government is cracking down on establishments selling alcoholic drinks to minors and is checking on their business permits.
City Legal Officer Romeo Carlos Ting Jr. warned on Sunday, August 6, that establishments that defy the law against the sale of alcohol to minors and the provisions in their business permits could face closure.
To address concerns raised by parents and to ensure the safety of minors, the Bacolod Permits and Licensing Office, in collaboration with Police Station 6, City Legal Office and the Department of Social Services and Development Office, conducted a joint operation on 11 stalls at Lizares Avenue in Bacolod City allegedly serving alcohol to suspected minors, late Friday, a statement posted by the Bacolod PIO said.
The establishments, some of which are known for their loud music, are located near a university and churches.
Department of Social Services and Development head Sally Abelarde said they are aiming to root out the illegal sale of alcoholic drinks to minors.
The inspection was was focused on establishments close to schools located in close proximity to schools, in response to complaints from concerned parents regarding the sale of prohibited alcoholic drinks, the PIO statement said.
With the upcoming start of the school year, the operation Friday served both as a precautionary measure and a reminder to students that purchasing alcohol in public establishments is strictly forbidden, it added.
Stall owners without proper business permits are set to face sanctions, it also said.
Most of them allegedly only have permits to operate as cafes serving food, without adding the sale of liquor as part of their businesses.*