SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – The provincial government here will continue to allow buying and selling of liquor as Antique observes the general community quarantine (GCQ) to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
“As long as the people remain to be responsible by themselves, the liquor ban will remain lifted,” said Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao during the Antique Inter-Agency Task Force for Covid-19 press conference on Wednesday.
Cadiao, however, reminded the public on the prohibitions provided in Executive Order (EO) No. 59 which regulates the sale and consumption of liquor and other alcoholic beverages during the extended GCQ in the province.
“The sale of liquor and other alcoholic beverages to consumers below 21 or above 59 years old is strictly prohibited,” she said.
She also said the sale of liquor and other alcoholic beverages is only allowed from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Cadiao said EO 59 was issued to curb profiteering in the sale of liquor and other alcoholic beverages.
“There is a need to regulate consumption of liquor and other alcoholic beverages, as this measure will go a long way for the benefit of legitimate entrepreneurs and the protection of consumers,” Cadiao said.
The province implemented the liquor ban from March 16 until May 22, resulting in the arrest of eight violators. The police also seized 36 boxes and 130 bottles of alcoholic drinks. (PNA)