Authorities in Davao City have taken a firm stance against establishments flouting local laws, citing nearly a hundred people during a series of coordinated early morning operations. The raids targeted three bars accused of repeatedly violating the city's longstanding ban on the sale and consumption of liquor during late-night hours.
Coordinated Operations Net Dozens of Violators
The enforcement action, led by the Vices Regulation Unit (VRU), occurred in the early hours of Sunday, December 28. A total of 74 individuals were issued citation tickets during inspections along Cabaguio Avenue and Monteverde Street.
VRU team leader Jay Francia explained that the targeted establishments were under surveillance due to numerous complaints and a history of ignoring the Davao City Liquor Code. The first bar on Cabaguio Avenue attempted to evade inspection, with management refusing to open its doors. Enforcers noted the glass entrance was covered, but they could see patrons still drinking inside.
Decoy Tactic and Side-Door Escape
After facing resistance, the VRU team temporarily moved to a neighboring bar, where they immediately confirmed violations. There, 18 people, including a bar representative, were cited for consuming alcohol during prohibited hours.
The enforcers then returned to the first bar, employing a clever strategy. "We planned to make them think we had already left," Francia stated. After a brief withdrawal, they observed customers sneaking out through a concealed side door. The team entered and found a large crowd still engaged in drinking. While some escaped, 40 individuals were apprehended and ticketed.
"That club is noted for constantly violating the liquor ban," Francia emphasized in a media interview.
Legal Consequences and Continued Enforcement
The operation concluded past 3 a.m., with a final inspection at a bar on Monteverde Street around 4:30 a.m., resulting in 16 more citations.
Davao City's regulation is grounded in Ordinance No. 004-13, Series of 2013. This law prohibits the sale, serving, and consumption of alcoholic beverages from 1 a.m. to 8 a.m. across bars, restaurants, stores, and public areas. The goal is to maintain public order, reduce disturbances, and promote community safety.
Violators face fines, and establishments risk severe repercussions. Francia confirmed that two of the raided bars will be recommended for flagging during their business permit renewal process. They must coordinate with the VRU to settle penalties and correct their records before renewal can proceed.
City authorities have stressed that compliance is mandatory. They warned that enforcement operations will continue unabated as part of their commitment to upholding peace and order in Davao City.
