Tim Yap, 32 others, each pay P1,500 fine over COVID-19 protocol breach in Baguio City
At least 33 guests who attended the controversial birthday party organized by social media personality Tim Yap in Baguio City have each paid their fines for violating the local government's safety protocols.

According to the Baguio City local government unit (LGU), the participants, including Yap, actress KC Concepcion, and some prominent personalities have settled their penalties amounting to P1,500 each for violation of the face mask and physical distancing city ordinances.
Among the guests who paid their fines was Arlene Magalong, wife of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. The couple attended the party after they were invited by Yap.
The Baguio City LGU added that The Manor, the hotel where Yap's event was held, also paid P9,000 for violation of the face mask ordinance; P3,000 for physical distancing ordinance; and P5,000 for the new normal operation for business establishments.
The Manor also submitted a commitment to follow health protocols which is another requirement of the Baguio City Permits and Licensing Division before it can renew its business permit.
Yap has been criticized by netizens after videos from several personalities who attended the socialite's birthday party made rounds on social media showing most guests without face masks and were not socially distanced.
Yap apologized for the health protocol violations during the party but clarified that all guests were tested before entering Baguio City. The local government is requiring tourists to have a negative swab test result before being allowed to enter the city.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) earlier said that it is now conducting a probe on the matter while a notice to explain has also been issued to the establishment.
A similar move was also launched by the city government according to Mayor Magalong who admitted that there were protocol breaches during the party.
Magalong tendered his irrevocable resignation as the government's contact tracing czar on Friday following the issue but was rejected by the National Task Force (NTF) Against COVID-19.
The city mayor, in a previous interview, said he understands why the guests, including his wife, failed to observe COVID-19 protocols as they are too "excited" or "engaged" during the event.
"Nagkataon lang po na tao lang po tayo. Sometimes when we are so engaged in a particular activity na masayahin, minsan nakakalimutan po natin (It just so happened that we’re only human. Sometimes, when we are so engaged in a particular fun activity, we forget to comply with the guidelines),” he said.