Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso has signed Executive Order No. 41 imposing a liquor ban, vendor restrictions, noise control measures, and other activity prohibitions within a 500-meter radius of San Beda University and the University of Santo Tomas (UST) during the 2025 Bar Examinations.
“This is to maximize concentration and focus of the bar examinees as they take this milestone in their lives,” Domagoso’s order stated.
Under Section 1 of the order, a liquor ban will be enforced around both schools from midnight of September 6 until 10:00 p.m. of September 7; midnight of September 9 until 10:00 p.m. of September 10; and midnight of September 13 until 10:00 p.m. of September 14.
Section 2 prohibits ambulant vendors within the same 500-meter radius from September 6 to midnight of September 8; September 9 to midnight of September 12; and September 14 to midnight of September 16.
These measures are intended to limit foot traffic and distractions around the examination venues.
Noise control measures outlined in Section 3 ban the use of videoke, karaoke, loudspeakers, and other sound-emitting devices—whether electrical, mechanical, or manual—within the restricted zone during the dates specified in Section 2.
Individuals or groups causing loud or unnecessary noise will also be barred to protect examinees’ concentration.
Under Section 4, the city has prohibited disruptive activities such as political rallies, parades, “salubong” events, parties, concerts, and other loud gatherings unrelated to the Bar Exams.
Any activity deemed to cause disruption will be subject to penalties under existing Manila laws and ordinances.
Road closures will also be implemented in areas surrounding UST and San Beda on September 7, 10, and 14.
For UST, Dapitan Street will be closed from 2:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and two outermost westbound lanes of España Boulevard will be closed during specified morning and afternoon hours.
Around San Beda, portions of Mendiola Street, Concepcion Aguila Street, and Legarda Street will be restricted, with certain lanes designated for drop-off and pick-up of Bar Exam stakeholders.
Extremadura Street near the bar exam national headquarters at UST will also be closed on test days.
Domagoso also directed all concerned city departments to strictly enforce the order and coordinate security measures to protect examinees, personnel, and stakeholders.
Violators will face sanctions under existing city laws, with the Manila Police District, the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau, and other relevant agencies tasked to ensure compliance throughout the Bar Examination period.
