Bill seeks to limit operations of nightclubs, bars

MANILA, Philippines - A pending bill in the House of Representatives aims to limit the operating hours of nightclubs, cocktail lounges, bars and establishments serving liquor from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. House Bill 4205 by Caloocan Rep. Oscar Malapitan aims to penalize operators of such businesses with up to six years' imprisonment. The bill also prohibits patrons from taking firearms inside these establishments, encouraging them to deposit these with management. "This bill will also enjoin owners, operators or managers not to allow persons with criminal records or those of questionable character from entering their establishment. They will have to secure a list of such citizens from the National Bureau of Investigation or the police agencies," he added. He said the bill aims to reduce the incidence of criminality, noting many studies show that intoxicating beverages and constant exposure to intoxicating environments encourage crimes. Malapitan added that not all clients of these establishments are rich. There are low-salaried employees who later resort to graft and corruption just to patronize these places, he said. "Others are minors who resort to dubious ways to make money just to sustain their pleasures. And they should not have been allowed inside in the first place," he said. "There are many more social evils that can be prevented if these establishments are totally banned, but because our people must be allowed some pleasures to relax their tired and weary bodies, these establishments exist but should be regulated," he added. - GMANews.TV