The Vices Regulation Unit (VRU) of Davao City apprehended 49 individuals for violating the liquor ban and 23 others for smoking in public places during an early morning operation on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
Liquor Ban Violations
Authorities caught 49 people inside a bar along Anda Street past 2 a.m. who were still consuming alcoholic beverages. The violators, along with the establishment, were issued citation tickets.
Smoking Violations
Meanwhile, 23 individuals caught smoking in public places across various areas of the city were also issued citations during the VRU's patrol.
Previous Operations
Earlier, on May 10, the VRU issued citation tickets to 86 individuals for violating the city's liquor ban during an inspection. Of these, 67 were caught inside a bar along V. Mapa Street. The establishment also received a citation for operating beyond designated hours.
Collection Performance
The VRU reported collecting approximately P17,519,400 in fines for violations under the city's Anti-Smoking and Liquor Ban ordinances in 2025, higher than the P12 million collected in 2024. VRU's Jay Francia stated that their office issued citation tickets to 10,963 individuals for anti-smoking violations and 3,075 for liquor ban violations. He emphasized that the increase in apprehensions reflects intensified efforts and continuous monitoring, not necessarily a rise in violators.
Ordinance Background
The 20th City Council approved the Revised Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance on April 16, 2024, and the amended Comprehensive Liquor Code on May 7, 2024, both proposed by Councilor Luna Acosta to protect minors and regulate alcohol and tobacco use. Under the Anti-Smoking Ordinance, violators face fines from P1,000 to P5,000 and a citation ticket; failure to pay incurs an additional P100 per day. The revised liquor code imposes fines from P1,000 to P5,000, possible revocation of business permits, and imprisonment of up to one year.
