Pangasinan will not ban traditional Holy Week activities but “encouraged” the public to opt for online participation.

Governor Amado Espino III’s Executive Order 0027-2021, signed on March 22, allows the conduct of mass in churches or private venues, reading of Pasyon, Holy Rosary events, and prayer vigils provided that the 50-percent seating or venue capacity limit is observed.

Processions, Stations of the Cross, kissing or touching of religious images, and the “Salubong” (Greeting) on Easter Sunday are “discouraged”.

“Online alternatives for the observation of Lenten Season, such as online masses, are highly encouraged,” Espino stated in the EO.

Churches and host local government units should strictly implement a “no face mask and no face shield, no entry”.

Commercial establishments, except those involved in food, medicines, and other basic commodities, are encouraged to cease operations during the Lenten holidays while a liquor ban has been set from March 31 to April 4.

Cockfighting and cockpit operations are suspended from March 22 to April 4 pursuant to the national Inter-Agency Task Force Resolution No. 104.

Operation of videoke or karaoke shall not be allowed in public places or outside residences.

Funeral wakes, on the other hand, shall be limited to three days with a limited number of people participating in the funeral procession.

“All local chief executives in the province of Pangasinan are enjoined to strictly observe and implement the guidelines in anticipation of the surge of the gathering of people for religious and leisure purposes for the upcoming holidays,” Espino said in a statement.

Pangasinan has 219 active Covid-19 cases as of March 22. (PNA)