Calbayog City in Samar has imposed guidelines and protocols in celebrating the holiday season amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.
Mayor Rolando Aquino has approved Executive Order No. 39 prohibiting face-to-face caroling, Christmas parties in all private and public offices, and other similar activities such as family and batch reunions to avoid large gatherings that would risk the spread of the virus.
The directive took effect on Dec. 7 and will be enforced until Jan. 3 next year.
“Visitors and guests are not allowed during social gatherings in line with the Christmas celebration. It must be limited to immediate family members only and the same should be held in their respective households,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
To keep the time-honored Filipino tradition, the city government has allowed the Catholic Church to hold the nine-day “Simbang Gabi” in village chapels.
Aquino said the religious mass, which starts on December 16, must be limited to 50 percent of the seating or venue capacity, encouraging organizers to hold the activity as many times as possible from 6 p.m. to midnight and from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m.
“Church officials are encouraged to set markers on the seats or demarcation lines on the floor to facilitate physical distancing, place foot baths or mats at entrances, and conduct disinfection or decontamination procedures prior and after the religious activity. Participants should wear face masks and face shields,” he added.
The city government will impose a 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew for 15 years old and below, and starting midnight to 5 a.m. for those older, except those attending the religious mass.
From Dec. 24 to 26, “namamasko” or Christmas wishers are not allowed to roam the city.
Aquino said village officials are required to set up barricades on these dates, prohibiting the entry of non-residents.
Use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices and playing of videoke or karaoke machines are also prohibited.
Aquino said the city will not impose a liquor ban, reminding the public to drink responsibly and moderately. (PNA)
