The city government of Manila will enforce a liquor ban on Holy Thursday and Good Friday in areas near Catholic churches to ensure a peaceful Holy Week observance.

Executive Order (EO) No. 9 signed by Mayor Honey Lacuna on Tuesday prohibits the sale and consumption of alcoholic drinks within the 500-meter radius of all Catholic churches in the city.

Lacuna also directed the local police and law enforcement units “to strictly implement the measure”.

The move is pursuant to Section 455 paragraph (b)(1) of Republic Act (RA) 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991, which gives local chief executives the power to exercise general supervision and control over all programs, projects, services, and activities of the local government for its efficient, effective and economical governance in consideration of the general welfare of its inhabitants.

A copy of this Executive Order shall be furnished the Office of the President, Malacañang Palace, pursuant to paragraph (b)(xii), Section 455 of the Local Government Code of 1991.

Manila is home to several historical and famous churches in the country such as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene commonly known as Quiapo Church, San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral, Binondo Church, Sto. Niño de Tondo Church, among others. (PNA)