CEBU, Philippines - Even before Sinulog Foundation Incorporated executive director Ricky Ballesteros could make a formal request to allow their sponsors to sell beer products at the Fuente Osmeña during the grand parade, Mayor Michael Rama has already denied it.
Rama said he will not issue special permits to allow selling of beers in Fuente Rotunda to prevent possible peace and order related problems later on.
“Dili na mahimo uy. Kun tugotan nimo nga dunay makapamaligya og beer diha sa Fuente Osmeña pwerteng daghana kaha nga hubog,” Rama told THE FREEMAN when asked about SFI’s plan to ask for special permit for their sponsors.
Beer manufacturers are among the major sponsors of the SFI for the Sinulog festivities. In exchange for their sponsorship these companies are asking that they be allowed to sell their products in Fuente Osmeña Rotunda at night.
Ballesteros said he will submit his formal request to Rama anytime this week, but the Mayor said he will not approve it.
Rama also stopped earlier the selling of beer products during the nightly Christmas activities in Fuente.
Although the selling of liquor and beer products are strictly prohibited in public plazas as provided for under the City Ordinance 1413, but the mayor is authorized to issue special permits on a “case to case” basis.
Those who wish to apply for special permit will have to pay P6,000 to the city government.
Ballesteros said if Rama allows his request he will make sure that bottled beer products will not be allowed inside the Fuente Osmeña Park. He said only draft beer will be sold.
But in spite the assurance, Rama said allowing the selling of intoxicating products will invite trouble. (FREEMAN)