Despite explanation, bar still faces closure

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Anti-Indecency Board wants the East Paris KTV in Barangay Mabolo padlocked despite its clarificatory letter explaining that the resumption of its operation was merely for “dry-run” purposes.

“We will proceed with our stand as expressed in our resolution. We are still recommending closure,” CCAIB chairman Dr. Lucelle Mercado said in a text message.

Mercado said the closure order will immediately be served once Mayor Michael Rama signs it.

Rama said he will “study and scrutinize” first the closure order.

East Paris KTV, formerly Las Vegas KTV, has been reportedly operating since last month, violating City Ordinance 1408, which stipulates that any establishment with the same nature of business is not allowed to operate a year after it was closed.

Las Vegas KTV, which used to operate at the second floor of APM Square Mall where the East Paris KTV currently operates, was ordered padlocked in December due to alleged “lewd and obscene shows.”

In a three-page letter dated November 21 this year, East Paris KTV legal counsel Inocencio Dela Cerna Jr. clarified that the reopening was for a dry-run of the lighting system, sound amplification and acoustics, electrical wirings, kitchen and beverage dispensation, and actual practice for guest relations and welcoming committee, which are done at night.

“The seeming impression that our client has opened its business may be due to the fact that East Paris KTV has for several days been doing a complete and thorough checking of the establishments for the safety and concern of its future guests and as a requirement of the City Ordinances,” he said.

Dela Cerna said that the owner of East Paris KTV was duly informed that they cannot yet open and operate for business as a closure order was meted out to Las Vegas KTV.

He said further that the establishment cannot open for business as it is still complying requirements for 60 days.

Also, CAIB has sent a memorandum to the City Treasurer’s Office asking an explanation why a temporary permit was issued to the establishment.

City Treasurer Diwa Cuevas said the establishment has undergone proper inspections, thus her office granted it a temporary permit changing its classification of business.

Dela Cerna said his client was issued permit but it has no intention of opening business in violation of the one-year prohibition stipulated for under CO 1408.

“…neither does it (East Paris KTV) wish to offend your good office and the morals and values it so represents,” the lawyer added.

The management of East Paris KTV, nonetheless, asked for an apology and assured the city that they will abide by its rules, regulations and ordinances.

A modification was noted in the classification of business between Las Vegas KTV Music Lounge and East Paris KTV Bar based on the database of CTO.

Las Vegas Music Lounge was classified as fast food, sell and serve liquor, and KTV, while East Paris KTV Bar is classified as a restaurant, sell and serve liquor, and for entertainment.

Las Vegas KTV Music Lounge has applied its permit through a certain Royet Ched Malabay, while East Paris KTV Bar’s application was through a certain Ma. Kristina Mondragon. —  Kristine B. Quintas/NSA (FREEMAN)