ILOILO CITY — The local government of Sibalom town, Antique province has denounced its employee after using an ambulance to illegally transport alcoholic beverage during a temporary liquor ban.
“We strongly condemn the fraudulent act of Emmanuel Marron in trying to bring in illegally boxes of liquor using the municipal government’s ambulance,” said Mayor Gian Carlo Occeña in a statement.
The 33-year-old driver was caught Thursday, May 7, at border checkpoint in Hamtic town as the government is still implementing quarantine measures against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The Philippine National Police (PNP) of Hamtic, led by Police Major Adolfo Pagharion Jr., flagged down Sibalom municipal government’s ambulance. When cops inspected the ambulance, they found in plain sight nine boxes of Tanduay Rum.
“I will never condone such an act and the person [Marron] should face the consequences of his action,” Occeña said.
“It is sad to note that this incident puts a bad light to our municipality and jeopardizes our efforts,” Occeña added.
The incident in Antique province is the latest in a series of violations of the temporary liquor ban across Panay Island.
A private vehicle from Capiz province was also caught in Passi City, Iloilo province carrying 68 boxes of liquor. (Tara Yap)
