Lim orders closure of nightclubs employing minor girls

MANILA, Philippines - Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim yesterday ordered the closure of three nightclubs after receiving reports that they are either employing minors or accepting minors as patrons and, therefore, aiding them to violate an existing city ordinance. In his directive to permits bureau director Nelson Alivio and on the recommendation made by social welfare department chief Jay dela Fuente, Lim stressed the need to make the owners of the said establishments liable.

Ordered closed was the Phenomenal Club on Rizal Avenue, Manila. Also ordered closed were the Prime Star and Apollo Disco Bar both located in Quiapo, Manila. He ordered that charges for violation of RA 7610 or the anti-child abuse law be filed against the owners of the said three nightclubs.

The clubs, according to Dela Fuente’s report to Lim, were found to be employing minor girls as guest relations officers during the rounds made by the joint city hall and police teams in the initial implementation of Ordinance 8046 which sets a curfew for those aged 18 and below. In an information gathered by the team, Dela Fuente said that the clubs also allowed minor boys as customers. Aside from this, certain violations of the Fire Code were also found by the team. This formed additional basis for the recommendation for the clubs’ immediate closure.

With these developments, Lim warned owners and operators of nightclubs and other similar entertainment and drinking establishments against employing minors or accepting minor guests, saying that they will be dealt with accordingly. – Sandy Araneta