THE VICES Regulations Unit is in talks with the 21st City Council committee on public safety and security to possibly amend the Comprehensive Liquor Code to penalize rising numbers of “private” bars.
During the iSpeak media forum on Thursday, June 4, VRU chief Jay Francia said these private bars are called party houses, organized by a group, according to public bar owners.
“Kung tutuusin, naga-operate sila without business permit, concerned pud na sa atong business bureau,” Francia said.
Francia said that although these are private establishments, there is a violation when minors are involved. However, authorities have to prove that there is actually a transaction between parties; otherwise, it will be considered a private party.
“We will discuss it with the committee chair on public safety para mapangitaan og paagi nga ma counter ning activities,” Francia stressed.
In the Pulong Pulong sa Dabawenyos on Tuesday, June 2, Councilor Luna Acosta said these “private” bars operate beyond the allowable hours in houses and condominiums.
“We are looking into reports that there are some unscrupulous groups or individuals who are trying to circumvent the liquor ordinance; instead sa bars sila magpa-inom, they are going to private houses, condominiums,” Acosta said.
Acosta added that, based on reports, these groups sell “entry tickets” for unlimited drinks.
While the office did not disclose the exact numbers, informants and the Vices Regulation Unit (VRU) said the number is increasing.
She cited that there were five recorded incidents during the Araw ng Dabaw festivities in March.
“Just because they are in a private establishment, hindi siya bar, hindi siya restaurant, they can drink all they want,” she said.
The councilor reminded that it is not allowed to drink at a party where people are charged for alcoholic beverages, as it is “selling and serving liquor in a privately owned area but within a public setting.”
Acosta said the committee is looking for ways to penalize those involved in the illegal activities.
The councilor cited that individuals under the influence of alcohol involved in vehicular accidents are found to be from these “private” parties rather than bars and restaurants.
Acosta said there is a problem in the implementation as these activities are not covered under the existing Liquor Ban Ordinance.
The amendments to the Liquor Code are anticipated to be finalized for roll-out before the Kadayawan Festival in August.
