MANILA -- The 17th Council of Davao City on Wednesday approved the amended ordinance banning liquor and other alcoholic beverages in the city an hour earlier.
From 2 a.m., the ban will now be in effect from 1 a.m. to 8 a.m.
The amended ordinance strictly prohibits the sale of liquor, coconut wine (tuba) and other alcoholic beverages to minors in business establishments such as hotels, motels, beer houses, disco houses, family KTV bars and restaurants.
It also removes exceptions for tourist-accredited establishments.
The amended liquor ban also prohibits drinking in all public areas in the city such as streets, plazas and parking areas.
Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre said the ordinance will change the lifestyle of Davaoeños.
Violators will face an administrative fine of P3,000 for first offense; P5,000 or three months of imprisonment for second offense; P5,000, one year of imprisonment and revocation of business permit for third offense.
The city council has yet to endorse the amended ordinance for the mayor's approval.
But Councilor Bonifacio Militar, proponent of the ordinance, said this is the "finish product that the mayor wanted."
"This is what the mayor wants. I know the problem of the mayor is maintaining the peace and order in the city and minors frequently visiting restobars," he said. -- Report from Hernel Tocmo, ABS-CBN News Davao