The Iloilo City liquor ban, which prohibits the sale of liquor and other intoxicating drinks after 2:00 a.m., is set to be repealed by Mayor Jerry P. Treñas. During a press conference yesterday morning, the mayor said he will sign an executive order once it is finalized by the City Legal Office.
“I will revoke it,” he assured.
Former Mayor Jose Espinosa III initially issued the order 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, Inc. President Jim Velez welcomed the decision and said they met with Treñas towards the end of last month, where they came up with a list of items to comply by including ensuring security guards are present, closed-circuit television cameras are installed, among other conditions.
Earlier, in reference to the policy, the mayor said, “The liquor ban makes it appear that you have a peace and order problem.”
“Why curtail the liberty to enjoy by everyone?” he added./WDJ