THE Tagbilaran city government has intensified inspections of establishments near schools to ensure strict compliance of laws protecting minors from liquor, cigarettes, and other vices.
This move comes after a violent interaction involving 11 students from Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School (DCPNHS) and four out-of-school youth—all minors.
The coordinated inspection, which began on August 6, 2025, is being carried out by the Business Permit and Licensing Office, City Administrator’s Office, City Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office, City Treasurer’s Office, City Engineer’s Office, Tagbilaran City Primary Care Facility, Tagbilaran City Police Station and Bureau of Fire Protection.
Teams are scrutinizing business permits, operational compliance, and adherence to youth protection laws such as Section 156 of City Ordinance No. C-201, or the Revised Code of Administrative Ordinances of the City of Tagbilaran which prohibits the sale of liquor or intoxicating drinks to persons below 18 years old and City Ordinance C-201 which bans the use, sale, distribution, and advertisement of cigarettes and other tobacco products to minors.
In its latest operation, the team inspected 95 establishments near 17 schools and found 42 stores without valid business or liquor permits and 21 stores openly displaying liquor and cigarettes in violation of local ordinances.
There were also instances of cigarettes being sold by the stick which is illegal.
Furthermore, many establishments lack the required warning signs prohibiting the sale of liquor, vape, and cigarettes to minors.
Violators were immediately issued Notices of Violation, posted with IEC tarpaulins, and ordered to remove displays of prohibited products.
The City Government has also coordinated with the local police and barangay tanods for continuous monitoring.
Mayor Jane Yap, who personally ordered the intensified monitoring, underscored the city’s firm stance on protecting young residents.
“We will not tolerate any act that endangers our children or promotes unhealthy behavior. These inspections are not just about enforcing regulations—they are about safeguarding the future of our city,” she said.
The inspections will continue in the coming weeks, with the city warning that violators will face penalties, suspension, or revocation of business permits.
Authorities are also encouraging residents to report any illegal sale of liquor, cigarettes, or other prohibited products to minors.
