Biz groups support extending curfew hours

Even though the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) has previously pushed for adjusting the curfew hours in Bacolod City, they are now supporting the decision of Mayor Evelio Leonardia to extend the curfew hours from 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. as part of preventive efforts against the Covid-19.

In a radio interview, MBCCI Chief Executive Officer Frank Carbon said, in his own personal view, the local government unit should give “cash for work” for those who have lost their jobs.

Carbon is also pushing for the city’s police force to deploy their personnel to traffic congested areas and enforce the health protocols by apprehending those who don’t wear their face masks or violate social distancing measures.

He further stated the police should always deploy uniformed personnel since they would be respected more, as well as utilizing civilian force multipliers such as barangay tanods.

He also believes that the government is doing the right thing in order to maintain health protocols, and the peace and order situation of the city.

Carbon also thanked the city government for retaining the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) status, even though additional restrictions were imposed.

Last Friday, Leonardia issued an executive order (EO) extending the MGCQ in the city for the fourth time from July 31 to August 15.

In the EO, Leonardia introduced several restrictions such as re-imposing the liquor ban and modifying the curfew hours from 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.

However, the new curfew hours have not yet been imposed as it require an amendment of the current city ordinance.