By Marilyn Galang
CABANATUAN CITY, Nueva Ecija – Less than 24 hours before voters head to polling precincts, six were arrested for alleged violation of the liquor ban in Nueva Ecija.
Col. Ferdinand Germino, Nueva Ecija police director, said the arrests were made early Sunday morning during mobile patrol operations in Barangay Vijandre and Barangay Barrera in Cabanatuan City.
The suspects were caught red-handed while consuming alcoholic beverages despite the ban being in full effect.
The suspects will face charges for violation of Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines, prohibiting the sale, distribution, and consumption of intoxicating liquor before and on election day.
“As we have repeatedly warned the public, drinking during the liquor ban is strictly prohibited. This is for the betterment of our communities, as we want to ensure a peaceful and orderly election day — free from fear, disturbance, or any untoward incidents,” Germino said.
Under Section 261 (dd) of the Omnibus Election Code, selling, buying, serving, or drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited for two days or until election day itself. Violators may face jail time of one to six years, disqualification from public office and loss of voting rights.
The Commission on Elections, with the police and other law enforcement agencies, will conduct inspections and checkpoints, especially in election hotspots. Bars, restaurants and stores catering only to foreign nationals may be granted exemptions. (PNA)
