Cebu City's Proposed Ordinance on Drunk Patrons Faces Scrutiny Over Effectiveness
A proposed ordinance in Cebu City, designed to regulate the serving or sale of alcoholic beverages to customers who are already heavily intoxicated, has sparked significant debate regarding its potential effectiveness in protecting public life and safety. On one hand, the ordinance's primary goal is to prevent accidents and promote responsible business practices, particularly in establishments that serve alcohol. If passed, it could serve as a strong warning to bar, restaurant, and other establishment owners and staff, emphasizing their duty not only to conduct business but also to exercise caution.
Inspired by Tragedy: The Kingston Ralph Ordinance
The imposition of penalties, fines, and the possibility of permit cancellation might encourage careful service and recognition of customer conditions, an approach that could help reduce incidents of drunk driving leading to tragedy. This initiative was inspired by a hit-and-run incident that occurred in the early hours of February 8, 2026, which shocked Cebu after the death of young businessman Kingston Cheng, reportedly due to reckless driving by another youth, Sean Pajarillo. This event prompted Cebu City Harold Go to shape the ordinance, named the "Kingston Ralph Ordinance" in memory of the victim.
Potential Disadvantages and Practical Challenges
However, it is also unavoidable that the ordinance may have potential disadvantages. One of the most recognized concerns is the possibility of shifting heavy responsibility onto establishment managers to monitor the personal decisions of their customers, which could be difficult to implement in a practical manner. Determining or measuring whether a person is "clearly drunk" may depend on the subjective judgment of different individuals, potentially leading to disputes or legal issues.
Furthermore, without strong support from road infrastructure, adequate lighting, police presence, and regular breathalyzer checkpoints, the ordinance's impact on reducing accidents might be limited. Therefore, the effectiveness of the proposed ordinance depends not only on the severity of penalties but on a holistic implementation of road safety measures—including public education, robust law enforcement, and cooperation from all sectors.
Holistic Approach Needed for Success
If carefully balanced and supported by comprehensive actions, there is a significant opportunity for this ordinance to bring about positive change. But if it remains a standalone policy without sufficient implementation mechanisms, it might merely serve as a symbolic response to a tragedy. In the end, the true measure of the ordinance's success lies in its ability to save lives while maintaining a proper balance between business responsibility, individual freedom, and the overall welfare of society.
