Mayor awaits safety assurances from bar owners

After earlier indicating plans to meet with local businessmen regarding the proposed repeal of the city’s liquor ban, which prohibits the sale of liquor and other intoxicating drinks after 2:00 a.m., Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said he is eager to reverse the order but is still awaiting safety assurances from local bar owners.
“I really want to revoke the executive order,” he stressed, referring to the order signed by his predecessor, former Mayor Jose Espinosa III.
Earlier this month, the mayor noted, “I am waiting for bar operators and owners for their commitment if they can assure public safety and peace and order.” However, he has since received any response.
“Sa bar operators pero ti asta subong waay pa man sila nakakadto sa aton (Up until now, bar operators have not visited with us),” Treñas admitted. “Kay kon magkadto sila sakon I want to sit down with them (If they come to us, I want to sit down with them).”
The policy came about after an incident in December 2017 at nightlife hotspot, the Smallville Complex, located in the city’s Mandurriao district.
According to reports, 24-year-old Rey Myr Tan was walking around the complex with friends around 5:35 a.m. when they were approached by a vehicle carrying three individuals. The victim was reportedly shot three times in the head.
Smallville-Boardwalk Business Association President Jim Velez has since said they are ready to comply with the proposed policy reversal, vowing to turn away minors, install security cameras, along with hiring security guards and bouncers.
Treñas believes overturning the executive order will boost the city’s tourism sector./WDJ