ILOILO – Today is the feast day of St. John the Baptist (San Juan de Bautista). Christian Filipinos traditionally celebrate it by freely dousing one another with water to simulate the act of baptism during the time of Christ – all in the spirit of fun.
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. reminded Ilonggos to observe the “3M” basic health safety protocols, citing the continuing threat of the coronavirus disease 2019.
The 3M stands for magmaskara (wear facemask), magdistansya (observe physical distancing) and manghinaw (wash hands) using soap and water or alcohol.
Defensor is not prohibiting people from celebrating the feast of St. John the Baptist. He said public gatherings are now allowed but not on open spaces or along the streets.
“Naga-allow kita sang gatherings but only 50 percent of a venue’s seating capacity, and in our latest executive order nagbutang kita sang gamay nga adjustment: indi anay ang mga activities that will draw unquantifiable crowds along streets and open spaces,” said Defensor.
As to people wanting to celebrate the feast by going to beaches, he said they may do so but must observe the 3M.
In Iloilo province, five municipalities’ fiestas coincide with the feast day of St. John the Baptist – Badiangan, Banate, Dingle, Igbaras, and Sara.
However, Defensor said, the local government units of these towns are not holding programs or events so as to avoid big crowds where physical distancing would be difficult to enforce./PN
