BACOLOD City Mayor Evelio R. Leonardia has partially lifted the ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, spirits in the city to help boost the local economy by driving alcoholic beverage companies to operate anew following a stoppage of their operation for more than two months.
Lifting part of the ban is similar to lifting the happiness of the tipplers who have yearned for those alcoholic beverages for more than two months amidst the imposition of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) and currently under the general community quarantine (GCQ) due to the coronavirus disease.
Both measures left a positive impact in the fight against Covid-19 as the prohibition of these alcoholic beverages has helped insured that no one will wander in the city to have a drinking binge with relatives and friends while the rest stayed at home as they abide with the regulations outlined by the national, regional, provincial and local governments.
Non-drinkers have focused their energies in dealing primarily with the psychological hurdles of staying at home while the drinkers contend their longings for the liquor and beers and bore the monotony of staying at home.
Mayor Leonardia’s Executive Order No. 37, Series of 2020 specifically pointed out some regulations with a partial lifting of the ban such as one can buy those beverages from noon up to 6 p.m. subject to the strict observance of social distancing and other mandatory health protocols.
The consumption of alcoholic beverages shall be allowed within private residences. Drinking beyond the premises of the house, along alleys, and sidewalks; and in any public place, such as but not limited to, restaurants, bars, convenience stores, and sari-sari stores are prohibited.
Bacolodnons who loved this lifting were celebratory in spirit because they can now chill with their family members who also drink these beverages.
Drinkers promised to follow the regulations set by the local government of Bacolod.
Research has it that moderate drinking of beer has health benefits too such as the nutrients it has as a beverage as compared to other alcoholic drinks. It can help protect one’s heart and prevent kidney stones problem. It can lower bad cholesterol and strengthen bones, and it can help reduce stress.
So, cheers Bacolodnons as we enjoy our favorite poisons in the confines of our homes.