(photo courtesy of CBCP News)
The government’s inter-agency task force (IATF) managing the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic has mandated the closure of all cemeteries, columbariums and memorial parks across the country during “Undas” season to curb the further spread of the dreaded virus.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said Friday the IATF approved the closure from October 29 to November 4.
Roque, however, added that cemeteries, columbariums and memorial parks will be opened from September 17 to November 15 but only for 30% capacity.
“Ibig sabihin pwede tayong dumalaw bago isara at matapos isara ang mga sementeryo pero 30% ang capacity,” he said.
The elderly, minors and those with comorbidities will be allowed to visit cemeteries, columbariums and memorial parks during this time but all visitors will be required to wear face masks and face shields and practice physical distancing.
It is a yearly tradition for millions in the Roman Catholic-majority Philippines to visit the resting place of their departed loved ones. Rommel F. Lopez