Proposals to extend bar operating hours drew mixed reactions during a public consultation as bar owners argued for later closing times to sustain business, while barangay leaders and the public raised concerns over noise, cleanliness, and disturbances caused by intoxicated patrons.
The public consultation conducted by Councilor Paolo Raynor Salvosa raised several concerns.
Bar owners objected to the required operating hours of 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM, arguing that most customers arrive around 1:00 AM, just when they must begin closing. In response, Salvosa acknowledged a proposal to extend closing time to 3:00 AM on weekends while maintaining the 2:00 AM deadline for weekdays.
Bar owners later pushed for 4:00 AM closing from Thursdays to Sundays, but punong barangays and the general public opposed this due to noise from intoxicated patrons.
The city government also raised cleanliness issues, noting that trash and bottles from bars often spill onto the streets.
Barangay captains echoed noise complaints, pointing out that disturbances from drunk patrons continue into the morning even after bars close at 2:00 AM or 3:00 AM.
These concerns will be discussed with the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO). **Danella Corin David (SP PIO Intern/UB Polsci)
