Panglao orders midnight closure of bars, videoke joints

TAGBILARAN CITY— Bars, pubs, nightclubs, karaoke and videoke bars, and other similar nighttime entertainment establishments in Panglao, Bohol must close to customers by midnight under a new executive order issued by Mayor Edgardo “Boy” Arcay on Monday.

Arcay issued Executive Order No. 44, Series of 2026, citing the need to maintain peace and order, public safety, cleanliness, and a healthy environment for residents, workers, and visitors in the tourism-dependent municipality.

The order covers establishments whose principal or substantial business involves selling alcoholic beverages and/or nighttime entertainment.

Article continues after this advertisement

READ: American tourist killed in Panglao bar brawl

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

Starting at midnight, covered establishments are prohibited from admitting or entertaining customers, selling or serving alcoholic drinks, continuing live entertainment or amplified music, dancing and karaoke/videoke activities, and allowing customers to remain inside for continued business operations.

The order cited concerns that late-night operations may contribute to disturbances, excessive noise, public intoxication, traffic congestion, and other incidents affecting the community.

It also noted that the municipality already has an ordinance regulating videoke and similar singing devices, including operating hours, noise control, and other requirements.

However, some business owners and tourism stakeholders have raised concerns about the midnight closing time, saying it could affect businesses, workers, tourists, and Panglao’s tourism economy.

Article continues after this advertisement

One business stakeholder said addressing peace and order concerns need not disrupt legitimate businesses.

“Peace and order and a thriving business community should not have to be opposing goals. We should find solutions that protect both,” the stakeholder said.

Article continues after this advertisement

READ: Panglao Island sees steady tourist arrivals

The stakeholder suggested more police visibility and patrols, improved lighting and CCTV coverage, stricter enforcement of existing laws and stronger coordination between businesses and authorities.

Arcay, in a public statement on Thursday, acknowledged the concerns raised by business owners, tourism stakeholders and members of the entertainment industry.

“I understand these concerns. Panglao is a tourism municipality, and our businesses and entertainment establishments provide important livelihood and contribute to our local economy,” Arcay said.

He urged the public to read the executive order in its entirety, particularly its provisions on exemptions and the implementation period.

Under Section 5, hotels and resorts may be exempted from the midnight closing time when providing services to registered guests, subject to applicable regulations.

Establishments with valid special permits for particular events, official government activities, and other circumstances authorized by law or municipal ordinance may also be exempted.

Arcay also pointed to a provision requiring information and awareness activities, and a reasonable compliance period before full enforcement.

“This means that the intention is not to suddenly close establishments or immediately disrupt businesses without proper information and coordination,” he said.

The mayor said the municipal government would first disseminate information, provide establishments with copies of the order, and allow a reasonable period for compliance and clarification.

READ: Tourists’ clamor: Better infrastructure, not just promos

“Our goal is not to stop Panglao’s tourism and entertainment industry. It is to find the proper balance between a vibrant business community and the peace, safety, and welfare of our residents and visitors,” Arcay said.

He also assured stakeholders that the municipal government was open to dialogue and would implement the order “responsibly and fairly.”

The Municipal Business Permits and Licensing Office, Municipal Tourism Office, Panglao police, barangay officials and other concerned agencies were directed to help enforce the order.

READ: Bohol governor: Fair tourism prices, better service amid viral fish dish

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.

Establishment owners, managers and operators are also responsible for ensuring that customers leave peacefully and that no disorderly activities occur immediately outside their premises as a result of their operations. /coa