Manila imposes liquor ban near churches

MANILA, Philippines — The Manila city government imposed a ban on liquor and other alcoholic drinks on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday within a 500-meter radius of Catholic churches.

Mayor Honey Lacuna on Tuesday signed Executive Order No. 9 mandating the liquor ban.

“Sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages are prohibited within 500 meters radius from churches in the city,” the order read.

Lacuna ordered the Manila Police District to strictly implement her directive.

Meanwhile, the city government announced that the Manila North Cemetery and Manila South Cemetery will be closed until Easter Sunday.

The cemeteries are open only for interment, city hall said.