Romualdez
TACLOBAN CITY — The city government here will impose a liquor and noise ban within a 500-meter radius of the Dr. Vicente Orestes Romualdez Educational Foundation (DVOR EF) in Barangay Calanipawan during the 2026 Bar Examinations to ensure a peaceful and orderly testing environment.
Mayor Alfred Romualdez signed Executive Order No. 2026-07-43 on Aug. 24, designating the area around DVOR EF as a controlled zone during the examinations scheduled on Sept. 6, 9, and 13.
DVOR EF is one of the local testing centers designated by the Supreme Court for this year’s Bar Examinations.
Under the order, the sale, distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages within the 500-meter radius will be prohibited. Noise-producing activities, including the use of amplified music and loudspeakers, will likewise be banned.
The restrictions will take effect at 12 midnight of Sept. 5, 8 and 12 and remain in force until 10 p.m. of Sept. 6, 9 and 13.
Construction, maintenance and other road or building works in the immediate vicinity of the testing center will also be suspended during the same periods.
The city government will also strictly prohibit U-turns along Calanipawan Road on examination days to help manage traffic and protect pedestrians.
The Traffic Operations Management, Enforcement, and Control Office(Tomeco) will deploy personnel at key intersections and pedestrian crossing points to regulate vehicular and foot traffic.
The executive order also prohibits mass gatherings, parades, parties, concerts, karaoke and videoke sessions, as well as other activities that could disrupt the examinations.
The traditional “salubong” for bar examinees will also not be allowed. Supporters and other unauthorized individuals are prohibited from staying or congregating near the controlled area of the testing center.
The Tacloban City Police Office and officials of Barangay 96 Calanipawan have been tasked with enforcing the order, investigating violations and filing appropriate charges when warranted.
Romualdez said the measures were necessary to prevent alcohol-related incidents of violence and crime, minimize noise and protect the welfare of the examinees.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
