The Diocese of Bacolod has requested the city government for a 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. curfew in consideration of the traditional Aguinaldo Mass in December.
In a letter sent to Mayor Evelio Leonardia, Bacolod Bishop Patricio Buzon asked the city government to temporarily adjust the curfew hours to accommodate churchgoers for the early morning mass.
A 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. curfew will allow the Catholic churches in Bacolod to hold at least two masses with strict observance of health protocols, particularly, social distancing.
To accommodate the churchgoers, the diocese plans to hold the first mass at 3 a.m. and 5 a.m. for the second mass.
Councilor Archie Baribar, author of the curfew ordinance, said he will study the church’s proposal and consider amending the existing ordinance.
However, he said the city mayor can decide on the request as he has the power to temporarily suspend the enforcement of the ordinance. – YBMontecillo
