The Department of Tourism Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) is demanding explanations from the management of an establishment in Baguio City where the birthday celebration of eventologist Tim Yap was held.
Tim Yap celebrated his 44th birthday at a hotel in the City of Pines on January 17, 2021.
The statement issued by the DOT-CAR states that it is investigating the incident and they have already sent a letter to the relevant authorities.
"The DOT Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) is currently investigating the reporter party at a DOT-accredited accommodation establishment in Baguio City. A Notice to Explain has already been issued to the establishment," part of the official statement of DOT-CAR.
Some concerned citizens complained about Tim's birthday party in Baguio City because they saw in the photos and videos that it turned out that most of the guests were not wearing a facemask and social distancing was not implemented.
But the guests underwent RT-PCR tests before the celebration, Yap and his guests explained.
Some of the showbiz personalities who attended Tim's birthday celebration were KC Concepcion and JM Rodriguez.
Based on the photos taken during Tim's birthday celebration, among those present were Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and his wife.
Tim led the dancing of the traditional Igorot dance without wearing a facemask, as well as other guests who also ignored the use of face masks and social distancing.
Netizens also condemned Tim's wearing of the Igorot's traditional attire, calling it disrespectful.
Recently, Mayor Benjamin Magalong strictly enforced health protocols in Baguio City to prevent the increase of COVID-19 cases in his area.
According to the Public Information Office of Baguio City, Magalong ordered on Tuesday afternoon, January 26, to increase the number of street police officers who will catch those who violate health protocols.
The statement stated:
Results of the Baguio City Police Office's operations on health protocol observance in the past eight days showed most of the violators were issued warnings and lectured on.
Mayor Benjie Magalong Jan. 26 ordered the police to intensify the operations until such time that substantial compliance is achieved. He asked that more foot patrollers be deployed to accost and penalize violators especially those not wearing face masks and face shields.
Face mask law offenders face fines ranging from P500 to P3,000 while face shield violators will be sent home.
Minors below the age of 15 are still disallowed from going out of their homes. Senior citizens are also encouraged to stay home at all times save for essential purposes.
