DILG chief vows to restore order in streets of NCR, PH

Drinking on streets, loud late-night karaoke sessions, curfew for minors on top of agenda

- By AARON RECUENCO

From drinking sessions conducted on the streets, to loud and annoying videoke singing late at night, the police will now be strict in enforcing social order - first in Metro Manila and later across the country - the government is keen on making the people feel the real effects of a decline in the crime rate.

This was disclosed by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, who said policemen will now be tasked to ensure that all the existing ordinances of local government units against drinking in public places and the use of videoke beyond 10 p.m. will be strictly enforced in every community in Metro Manila.

"Drinking along the streets are usually the cause of street fight and even sexual harassment but from now on, we will be prohibiting it. If you hold drinking sessions inside your residence, not a problem but if it's in public places, you would be in trouble," said the feisty Remulla.

He said the Philippine National Police (PNP) will also be strict in ensuring that the use of videoke is controlled, and should not be allowed beyond the time stipulated in barangay, city or municipal ordinances.