Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia imposed a liquor ban across the city effective yesterday. According to the order, the mayor said alcoholic beverages violate social distancing rules, noting, “Intoxicating drinks encourage gatherings and close contact among people.”

He went on to claim the city government had been receiving complaints regarding violations to social distancing.

The order notes, selling, serving, and publicly consuming alcoholic beverages are prohibited. In addition, those found in violation face penalties.

According to an article in the Washington Examiner, in the United States, Pennsylvania remains the only state to close liquor stores; however, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf may be reconsidering the decision, saying, “We are looking at that very seriously.”

Meanwhile, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock earlier issued a similar order, which he reversed hours after implementing the policy./WDJ