First orders: Curfew, no smoking, liquor ban

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Incoming president Rodrigo Duterte is ready to work with Congress to implement nationwide the curfew for minors, liquor ban, and no-smoking ordinances he has enforced as mayor of this city. 

When asked what would be his first order as president, Duterte replied, “The very fundamentals of society – curfew, no drinking beyond 1 o’clock.” 

“I’ll ask if I would need a national law. If I have the authority under the broad police power of the state, maybe I can (implement them). But if it is inadequate legally, I will ask Congress (to pass a law),” Duterte said in a press briefing Saturday night here. 

“Why should we drink until 2 a.m.? Is this a drinking contest?” he added. 

Duterte said he wants to implement the liquor ban because employees of establishments like waiters, cooks and cashiers also need to rest. 

He said he would also prohibit smoking in public places.   

“They say that they are using their money for the cigarettes. Look, if you’re not an idiot, you know that when you smoke in enclosed restaurants or offices, you pass off cancer to others,” the incoming president said. 

“It’s not fair for you to distribute cancer. It is scientifically proven beyond doubt that it (smoking) causes cancer,” he added.

Duterte implemented the no-smoking, liquor ban and curfew ordinances during his more than 20- year stint as mayor.