Closed “gay bar” seeks CCAIB and CH reconsideration

CEBU, Philippines - The “gay bar” that was closed about two weeks ago appealed to the city government to be given a chance to operate again.

Cheetah Bar and Restaurant, through its official representative Grace Gabasa, wrote city mayor Michael Rama through Cebu City Anti-Indecency Board (CCAIB) chairperson Dr. Cecille Mercado asking for the reconsideration of the closure order dated June 11 and enforced June 26.

“If we ever cross the line between entertainment and indecency, please permit us to put things right,” the July 1 letter stated saying they are “here in Cebu city to do business, not violate any laws.”

Gabasa insisted on the absence of due process claiming they were not informed of any violation prior to the closure.

“Until today, we are not aware as to what our violations were based on Cebu City Ordinance No. 1408 as amended. However, considering that our business establishment is now closed and padlocked, we would like to appeal to your office and allow us to rectify the alleged violations,” the letter, duly noted by the bar’s legal counsel Atty. Jose Jonas Salas said.

But Mercado firmly reiterated that proper procedures were followed which led to the closure late last month.

“That’s not true. We gave several warnings to them after conducting monitoring by CCAIB personnel. We also specified their violations based on the anti-indecency ordinance,” the CCAIB chairperson explained adding they will not favor the letter for reconsideration.

Rama, for his part, said the matter has to be assessed and decided by CCAIB. (FREEMAN)