Beach party amid COVID-19 causes LGU to shut down resort in Batangas

A resort in Barangay Laiya, Batangas was shut down by the local government of San Juan after it allowed guests to hold a beach party amid the coronavirus pandemic.

According to Cedric Castillo’s “24 Oras” report, a video sent by concerned citizens to the Department of Tourism showed people playing loud music, screaming, and dancing close to one another at the Blue Coral Beach Resort on Monday.

San Juan Mayor Ildebrando Salud said the resort informed them beforehand that guests would arrive, but the management did not declare the tourists’ intent to hold a party.

Mass gatherings remain banned in San Juan, which is under general community quarantine.

“May party, may sounds, may stage. Nag-request po sila na magkakaroon sila ng guests pero wala po silang sinabi na magkakaroon ng event,” the mayor said.

“Sabi ko po, kung kasya ‘yan doon sa [itinakda] natin na limitation sa tao. Ang sabi naman po, tutulog lamang,” he added.

Authorities immediately stopped the party and issued a closure order to the resort.

The San Juan government has canceled the resort’s business and mayor’s permits.

“Sa ngayon po ay pinalagyan po namin sila ng paskil na sila po’y sarado dahil po sa paglabag sa IATF health protocol,” Salud said.

The local government also said it was prepared to take responsibility for the event.

The Blue Coral Beach Resort has yet to respond to GMA News’ requests for comment. -Julia Mari Ornedo/NB, GMA News