Beer joints at Rizal complex face closure

The Philippine Sports Commission, in a bid to provide the athletes a vice-free environment, has initiated legal steps to get rid of the bars located at the side of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex fronting the Harrison Plaza.

Atty. Maribel Rodriguez, head of the PSC’s legal department, said they’ve already sought the help of the court in easing out the beer joints that have proliferated in the area near the quarters and the training venue of the members of the national pool.

"The PSC wants to rid itself of these joints, which serve as distraction to the athletes training there," said Rodriguez.

There were reports that these joints, which have been serving alcoholic drinks, are reportedly owned by people who either have connections with officials of the city of Manila or city officials themselves. These bars are paying the PSC a monthly rental ranging from P35,000 to P38,000.

Rodriguez said the PSC would want to lease these properties to other business establishments like Hortaleza and Peak sports shop.

"This is supposed to be an alcohol and tobacco-free sports complex, there should be no beer joints here. But the problem is a key official of the city of Manila is involved there," a source told The STAR.

In fact, the PSC would be attending a hearing at the Manila Trail Court Branch 26 on March 29 against one of the night spots in question reportedly frequented by athletes, PSC employees and sports officials.