Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. has ordered on April 17 the closure of IM KTV Bar, one entertainment bar in Timog Park Subdivision, Barangay Pampang, for employing a minor aged 17 years old.

“Alam naman po ninyo na mahigpit nating ipinapatupad ang mga regulations natin. Let us ensure that all are in compliance,” Lazatin said.

The mayor, ensuring the strict enforcement of regulations on business establishments, added “We will not allow any wrongdoings. The city government will file charges against the bar.”

Aside from the rescued minor who is from Tagum City, Davao Del Norte and has been working in the bar since early January 2023, a total of 44 other employees were also taken to be assessed at the Ima Foundation. 

Mayor Lazatin conducts random yet regular inspection among business establishments in the city with a team from the Business Permit and Licensing Division led by Evangeline Malonzo, City Social Welfare and Development Office headed by Edna Duaso, Angeles City Police Office Station 2 and the Women and Children’s Protection Desk. 

According to Duaso, the rescued minor will remain under the custody of CSWDO at the Home for the Girls. 

The city government will coordinate with the local government of Tagum City in Davao del Norte to reunite the rescued minor with her family. 

Duaso also said that she was instructed by Mayor Lazatin to assist and ensure the welfare and safety of all rescued employees.