Canlaon lifts liquor ban despite volcano threat

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY — The city government of Canlaon in Negros Oriental lifted its liquor ban and operational restrictions on establishments starting Sept. 20, despite the ongoing threat from Kanlaon Volcano.

In Executive Order No. 72, Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas said the current situation allowed a reassessment of restrictions to support the recovery of businesses and the local economy while ensuring public order and safety.

On Sept. 12, the local government implemented a liquor ban and limited establishment hours to 10 p.m. as part of public health and safety measures related to the continued unrest of Kanlaon Volcano.

About a week later, Cardenas permitted the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages in public and private establishments, provided businesses comply with existing health and safety regulations.

The executive order also allowed establishments to operate beyond 10 p.m., as long as they follow relevant health protocols and local ordinances.

However, Cardenas reiterated that the city’s curfew for minors remains in place.

According to Resolution No. 44, Series of 2024, minors are prohibited from roaming between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, attending an official school, religious, or community event, or dealing with an emergency.

Law enforcement agencies and barangay officials were instructed to strictly enforce the executive order.

Cardenas warned that establishments failing to observe health and safety protocols could face penalties.

Two weeks ago, the city implemented a preemptive evacuation of residents living within the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) around the volcano.

As of 8 a.m. on Sept. 23, Kanlaon Volcano remains under Alert Level 2, indicating increased unrest.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported 28 volcanic earthquakes and a sulfur dioxide flux of 7,211 tons per day as of Sept. 22.