SAN JOSE, Antique – Public and private cemeteries here are open from Oct. 25 to 28.
In his executive order (EO) issued on Oct. 21, Mayor Elmer Untaran set the guidelines that the managements of the cemeteries must follow. These are the following:
* All cemeteries will open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Oct. 25 to 28, and and will be closed from Oct. 29 to Nov. 2. Visitors shall wear facemasks and face shields and shall observe the one-meter social distancing rule.
* People outside San Jose may visit their departed relatives and family members on the dates allowed, and shall present their travel pass from their respective municipalities or barangays, and/or their vaccination cards.
* All are enjoined to start cleaning tombs upon the issuance of the EO, and prior to the scheduled visiting days. Eating in cemeteries is strongly discouraged. Activities shall only be limited to praying, bringing of flowers and lighting of candles.
* Vending activities are prohibited within and outside cemeteries.
* Only persons 15 years old to 65 years old are allowed to enter cemeteries. Those with immunodeficiencies, comorbidities or other health risks, and pregnant women are strongly discourage from going to cemeteries.
* To ensure safety and security of visitors, barangay officials shall complement the members of the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail and Management Penology, Kabalikat Task Force and Municipal Health Office.
* Trick and Treat activities, Halloween parties and similar revelries conducted in public are disallowed.
* Masses will not be celebrated in cemeteries, only the blessing of graves.
The local government of San Jose recognizes the significance of family and cultural traditions, however it must ensure the health and safety of everyone, said Mayor Untaran./PN
