Erap allows bars at Baywalk until January

MANILA, Philippines - Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada has allowed bars and restaurants, which will operate only until Jan. 8, 2015, to be set up along Roxas Boulevard’s Baywalk in an effort to reduce the number of unemployed residents in the city.

In a phone interview with The STAR, Estrada said the bars are allowed to feature bands to entertain patrons.

But unlike in the past, the bars are not allowed to serve liquor and other alcoholic drinks.

“Strictly no liquor will be served, especially to minors. The restaurants are only allowed to sell soft drinks, ice cream and food,” Estrada said.

He said the city government, which was left bankrupt by his predecessor, has to find ways to provide jobs for residents.

The mayor said they plan to host a tiangge (flea market) along Baywalk during the holiday season.

Former Manila mayor Lito Atienza had asked Estrada to revive the Baywalk strip and Avenida Rizal as pedestrian-friendly areas, which were closed down by former mayor Alfredo Lim.

Atienza urged Estrada to continue his urban renewal program.