MANILA, Philippines – San Juan City has lifted its liquor ban after Mayor Francis Zamora signed an ordinance dropping the prohibition of selling, serving, and consumption of alcoholic drinks in the city’s public spaces during the coronavirus lockdown.

Zamora on Monday, May 18, signed City Ordinance No. 36 which allows alcohol consumption so long as it is consumed inside homes and that physical distancing rules are followed.

The ordinance is effective upon Zamora’s signing.

“There is a need to relax the total prohibition of selling and/or drinking of alcoholic beverages of any kind…for economic reasons to help retailers and other small businesses,” the ordinance stated.

The lifting of the liquor ban in San Juan City is the latest in Metro Manila after businesses urged local governments to allow the sale of alcohol again so that businesses do not suffer further amid the coronavirus pandemic.

As of May 16, San Juan City recorded a total of 285 confirmed coronavirus cases, including 38 deaths and 82 recoveries.

Meanwhile, the Philippines on Tuesday, May 19, reported a total of 12,942 cases, including 837 deaths and 2,843 recoveries. – Rappler.com