Manila bans ‘bar ops’ for 2008 bar takers

MANILA, Philippines - Manila has barred the holding of bar operations or “bar ops" for the 2008 bar examinees this September to avoid traffic jams on Taft Avenue. Radio reports on Wednesday said Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim’s action was prompted by the call of Supreme Court Deputy Clerk and Bar Confidant, Ma. Cristina Layusa, to the city government to stop issuing permits to bar ops organizers. The activities have been the tradition of school organizations and fraternity groups to demonstrate their support for bar examinees. Organizers put up tents, use loud sound systems and create other forms of hoopla, including partying on the streets. According to Layusa, these activities snarl up traffic, making it hard for both commuters and examinees to pass by the exam venue. She added that in the past bar ops, some streets along Taft Avenue have been closed to accommodate the supporters. The report said secretary to the mayor Rafaelito Garayblas has tasked Supt. Roberto Rosales, Manila Police Director, to enforce the ban. The Philippine Bar Examination is the national licensure exam for the admission to the practice of law. It is conducted during the four Sundays of September of yearly. The 2008 Philippine Bar Examinations will be held at the De La Salle University on Taft Avenue, Manila, on September 7, 14, 21 and 28 from 8 a.m. to 5p.m. - GMANews.TV