The Baguio City Police Office is enforcing an ordinance prohibiting the consumption of alcohol in public places in response to the order issued by Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Secretary Remulla on Monday.

Baguio City Ordinance No. 1-1990 or the Baguio City Liquor Ordinance strictly bans the selling and drinking of liquor, as well as gambling, in public places at any time of the year. It has been amended by subsequent ordinances to meet the changing needs of the city.

Restricted locations include public parks, cemeteries, alleys, city and national roads, bus and jeepney terminals, and moving or parked vehicles in public areas like alleys, roads, taxi stands, and terminals.

The ordinance also says that establishments cannot serve or sell liquor near schools, churches, hospitals, or public buildings.

The ordinance is part of the broader efforts by the Baguio City government to maintain peace, order, and public safety.

The BCPO said the strict implementation of the ordinance and other laws for public safety resulted in lower crime incidents in the first quarter of the year compared to last year.

Also strictly enforced is Silent Ordinance No. 44-2018 that prohibits excessive, loud, and unnecessary noise from audio devices such as videoke machines in residential areas and public streets from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.

He said that Remulla’s directive is a reminder for local government units and police to strictly implement these ordinances.

"Drinking on the streets are usually the cause of street fights and even sexual harassment, but from now on, we will be prohibiting it," Remulla said in a press briefing.

Remulla said videoke use must follow time limits set by barangay, city, or municipal ordinances.

"Complainants can call 911 and expect that policemen will respond to make sure that the proper rules and regulations on the use of videoke in the community are properly enforced," he added.

Authorities will also crack down on individuals roaming shirtless in public.

"If you don’t want to be in trouble, please wear even sandos because we will be running after those who roam around without shirts," Remulla said.

The DILG will likewise strictly enforce curfew hours for minors.

"If you are not enrolled in school and jobless, then go home. You will be prohibited to stay on the streets after 10 p.m.," Remulla said.

To support the initiative, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will deploy additional personnel and set up assistance desks in key areas such as schools and transportation hubs.

PNP Director for Operations Police Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones said the "Safe City" concept is anchored on the principle that "the safety of our communities must be continuously strengthened through the focused measurable and sustainable action."

"Actually, we are already doing the strategies aligned in the 'Safe City' (plan). It includes the strategic deployment of our personnel," he said. (With a report from PNA)