Tacloban: Eight tourism-related establishments in Eastern Visayas have sought an exemption from the election liquor ban, the Department of Tourism (DOT) reported Thursday. The request comes in the wake of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No. 11057, which enforces a liquor ban from May 11 to 12 to maintain peace and order during the election process.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DOT regional office indicated that only a few establishments sought exemption until the last day of application on May 5. Among these, three establishments are located in Calbayog City, Samar; two each in the cities of Tacloban and Ormoc, in Leyte; and one in Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte. The data released by the DOT regional accreditation team emphasized that only DOT-accredited hotels, restaurants, bars, resorts, and other related establishments are eligible to apply for such exemptions.
DOT Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes stated that while some tourism-related establishments have been granted exemptions from the liquor ban, only foreign guests are permitted to purchase and consume alcohol during this period. This measure aims to prevent any alcohol-related incidents that could disrupt the election process.
Additionally, Comelec has declared that drinking sprees during fiesta celebrations are also unlawful. To reinforce this order, the Police Regional Office 8 has committed to strict enforcement, ensuring that the midterm elections on May 12 remain peaceful and orderly. Violators of the liquor ban may face imprisonment for one to six years without the possibility of probation and may be permanently banned from holding any public office.