Tuesday, May 20, 2008 Village chief blames bars for crimes in U-belt By Rimaliza Opiña
BARS that serve liquors to minors and computer shops that allow minors to surf the Internet even during school hours remain rampant despite several complaints lodged by both school and barangay officials in the Office of the City Mayor.
Although no barangay clearance was issued to the supposed erring establishments, not all were still issued with business permits, said Barangay Kabayanihan chairman Michael Karl Flores.
Flores said the barangay has been steadfast in its stand against the proliferation of nightclubs, bars and liquor stores at Session Road, Assumption Road and Mabini Street. The establishments in this areas are the primary source of peace and order problems that result in loss of lives, infliction of injuries and damage to property, yet City Hall continues to issue permits.
"Despite our effort through the non-issuance of barangay business permits, coupled with the numerous written complaints coursed through various government agencies, no concrete action has been taken by the city," Flores claimed.
He said several of these establishments have earlier closed down, but resumed operation after they were able process their permits at City Hall.
In a compiled report by Baguio City Police Office from 2002 to 2008, crimes in the area involved incidents of mauling and stabbing.
The latest request to close down shops that violate city ordinances was on May 8. To date, no action has been done, Flores said.
The barangay leader complained that some bars, such as Joshmical Bar, are a source of peace and order problems in the barangay.
He also alleged the establishment employs women and children for prostitution.
Videoke bars also abound at Balisong building along Assumption Road -- a few meters away from Saint Louis School Center.
Flores asked that business permits should no longer be given to establishments which dispense liquor in areas near schools as well as to computer shops which continue to defy ordinances limiting its use only after school hours.
"Let us start giving concern to the thousands of students in our city. We take pride as educational center of the north, yet we do not lift a finger to consider their (students') plight," Flores said adding that students should be accorded a wholesome environment.
