The Negros Oriental police will begin implementing the ban on roadside alcohol consumption on Wednesday, April 8, following a directive from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
Capt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOrPPO), said during a Zoom press conference all police chiefs were directed to begin implementing the DILG’s memorandum against public drinking of alcohol and other prohibitions.
“The police will be dispersing groups or individuals found drinking in the streets, seawalls, boulevards, and other similar public places, but in the absence of guidelines from the DILG and higher headquarters, there will be no apprehensions yet,” Polinar said.
“We are still to receive a memorandum from the DILG and the Philippine National Police hierarchy so we can be guided accordingly,” he added.
The DILG directive also bans shirtless individuals from roaming the streets and the use of videoke machines after 10 p.m., Polinar said. It is also encouraging strict enforcement of a curfew for minors starting at 10 p.m.. he added.
Polinar said the police stations are tasked to coordinate with the local government units (LGUs) to determine existing ordinances on these prohibitions. Barangay tanod (village watchmen) and barangay officials are also being tapped to help the police implement the said prohibitions.
Polinar warned that individuals who ignore the police despite being called out can be arrested for disobedience to a public officer. *PNA
The Rizal Boulevard in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, is a main tourist attraction and also a venue for strollers and joggers.*
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