Manila City Enforces Liquor and Street Vendor Ban
The Manila City government has implemented a strict ban on liquor and street vendors within a 500-meter radius of the University of Santo Tomas and San Beda University. This measure aims to ensure a peaceful environment during the 2025 Bar examinations, local leaders noted.
Both universities will serve as local testing centers for the highly anticipated Bar exams scheduled in September. Officials reported that the ban covers the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages, ambulant vendors operating stalls, walking vendors, carts, as well as excessive noise and any disruptive activities within the designated zones.
Specific Dates for Liquor Ban and Vendor Restrictions
The liquor ban will be strictly enforced on three key dates to coincide with the Bar exam schedule. According to community members, the ban periods are as follows:
- September 6, 12 a.m. to September 7, 10 p.m.
- September 9, 12 a.m. to September 10, 10 p.m.
- September 13, 12 a.m. to September 14, 10 p.m.
Meanwhile, restrictions on ambulant vendors, noise, and other disturbances will be in place during these intervals:
- September 6 until September 8, 12 a.m.
- September 9 until September 12, 12 a.m.
- September 14 until September 16, 12 a.m.
Road Closures to Support Exam Security
To further maintain order, several roads surrounding both universities will be closed on select days. Sources said these closures are scheduled for September 7, 10, and 14.
Around the University of Santo Tomas, Dapitan Street will be inaccessible from 2 a.m. until 7 p.m. Likewise, the two outermost westbound lanes along UST’s side—from Lacson Avenue to P. Noval Street and España Boulevard—will be closed between 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. and again from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Extremadura Street near the Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, O.P. Building will also be closed from 2 a.m. to 7 p.m., officials reported.
Road Restrictions Around San Beda University
For San Beda University, road closures will take effect from 2 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the specified dates. Community members noted the following restrictions:
- Mendiola Street, particularly from the Mendiola Peace Arch to Concepcion Aguila Street, will be closed to unauthorized persons and vehicles, excluding residents.
- Concepcion Aguila Street, from Mendiola Street to Jose Laurel Street, will have both lanes closed to unauthorized persons and vehicles except residents.
- Legarda Street, specifically two lanes from San Rafael Street to the eastbound side of Mendiola Street, will be partially closed. The eastbound lane will be designated for drop-off and pick-up of Bar exam stakeholders.
Ensuring a Quiet Exam Atmosphere
These measures reflect the city’s commitment to providing a quiet and secure environment for Bar examinees. Local officials emphasized that the restrictions are crucial to minimize distractions and disturbances during the exam days.
Residents and commuters are encouraged to plan accordingly and comply with the temporary bans and road closures to support the smooth conduct of the 2025 Bar examinations.
For more news and updates on Manila City government policies, visit Filipinokami.com.
