• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Bacolod City Government has temporarily shut down the newly opened McDonald’s Buri Road branch, which had just started operations on February 1, due to its failure to secure a fire safety permit from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
In a statement, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez emphasized that business compliance is crucial for public safety.
“These regulations exist to protect both the public and businesses,” Benitez said.
In response, McDonald’s acknowledged the city’s government decision and committed to meeting all requirements, announcing a temporary closure by February 14.
While it supports business growth, the Bacolod City government said that compliance is non-negotiable.
The branch may resume operations once all necessary permits are secured, a press statement from the City Public Information said.*
