Resto bar group vows support to city’s anti-Covid, HIV efforts

“We don’t tolerate these kinds of bar establishments operating in Baguio that continue to violate rules and city ordinances.”

This was the staunch declaration of Baguio Association of Bars and Entertainers (BABES) president Allan Bandoy during the flag-raising rites at City Hall, December 13, before local officials, employees and guests led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong.

He stressed that their association, an honorary member of the Aids Watch Council (AWAC), does not tolerate local bar owners who violate the Summer Capital’s ordinances and coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) health protocols.

“I would even recommend these bar establishments for the revocations of their permits, and it’s going to be a lesson for other establishments na sana wag na nila tularan, “ Bandoy said as he shared the travails of night establishment operators during the pandemic especially their employees, many of whom had to be let go. He disclosed that in 2019 before Covid-19 struck, BABES had about 1,400 entertainers and around 264 bars and other establishments. At present, only 88 resto bars are operating, Bandoy added.

He is hoping that more resto bars will open next year as Covid-19 restrictions have eased and is requesting the city government for any form of assistance that could bolster the association’s recovery so that it may provide much-needed employment.

Bandoy also pledged the group’s strict adherence to IATF rules and local regulations including its continuous support in the campaign to achieve an HIV-free city. – Gaby B. Keith