By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

A La Carlota City bar was shut down by the city government after reportedly holding an event without acquiring an appropriate permit. Local authorities identified the establishment as the Solstice Outdoor Bar and, according to information provided by the city government, the bar reportedly hosted a Miss Gay and Bikini Open during the feast of Nuestra Señora de la Paz, which took place from January 23 to 24.
Notably, the establishment in question is located in front of a local Catholic Church.
The city government said the owner of the establishment did not secure a special permit for the said event, which is a direct violation of conditions of the Mayor’s Permit and DTI certification. Additionally, the violation was further aggravated by verbal complaints and public outcry against the alleged indecent that was characterized as “obscene” as the owners were seen as showing utter disrespect to a sacred place.
The closure order was served by the La Carlota City Business Permit and Licensing Office and La Carlota City Police Station to the establishment’s owner and proprietor last January 29, which remains in effect for seven days upon receipt.
The owner of the bar was also given a chance to explain why the establishment should not be closed but their justification was deemed “insufficient.”/DGB, WDJ