The Bacolod City government has eased restrictions on the holding of religious gatherings as it now allows the use of up to 30 percent seating capacity of churches for the month of November.
The partial amendment is stated in Executive Order No. 70 issued by Mayor Evelio Leonardia for the extension of the General Community Quarantine from Nov. 1 to 30.
Previously, religious gatherings were allowed for only up to 10 percent of the seating capacity or up to 10 persons whichever is higher.
In the new directive, up to 30 percent seating capacity of the venue is now allowed with no objection from the city government.
According to IATF Resolution No. 80, mass gatherings, such as but not limited to, movie screenings, concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment activities, community assemblies, and non-essential work gatherings are prohibited.
However, gatherings that are for the provision of critical government services and authorized humanitarian activities, while adhering to the prescribed minimum health standards, are allowed.
Religious gatherings in areas under GCQ are also allowed up to 30 percent of the seating or venue capacity.
However, such gatherings are limited to the conduct of religious worship and/or service and that there is no objection from the local government unit where the religious gathering may take place.
Religious denominations are directed to strictly observe their submitted protocols and the minimum public health standards, particularly the social distancing measures and non-pharmaceutical interventions such as the mandatory wearing of face masks and immediate availability of hand hygiene necessities in the premises. – NLG
