AKLAN – Guidelines and protocols have been set by the local government unit (LGU) of Kalibo to ensure the safe observance of this year’s Undas in the municipality.
There will be no closure of cemeteries for this year as the province of Aklan remains under COVID-19 alert level 1, provided that minimum health protocols are strictly implemented, as per Kalibo mayor Juris B. Sucro’s Executive Order (EO) No. 057 dated Oct. 21.
According to the EO, public cemeteries will open at 6 a.m. and will close at 9 p.m. from Oct. 31 until Nov. 3, 2022.
Private cemeteries have the discretion to implement different operating hours but should ensure not to exceed 9 p.m.
Use of facemasks and the carrying of hand sanitizers are strongly advised.
Those who are exhibiting flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, and colds are discouraged from visiting the cemeteries.
The EO also prohibited the following activities and items inside the cemeteries:
* bottled alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks
* bladed weapons
* explosives, unlicensed firecrackers, harmful chemicals and other similar items which may cause harm, injury or death
* drones and firearms (except for those with security clearances)
* bringing karaoke or playing loud music
* gambling and gambling paraphernalia
* overnight stay
* all types of vehicles within the cemetery grounds
Only ambulant vendors with special permits from LGU-Kalibo will be allowed to sell goods from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3 at the designated ambulant vending areas outside the cemeteries, public markets, and stalls set by the LGU.
There will be no burial, internment, or cremation in all cemeteries operating within Kalibo during the said period, except for cases of immediate burial.
Visitors shall also observe proper waste disposal and apply the “Clean as You Go” policy. All cemeteries must adhere to garbage collection points determined by the Municipal Economic Enterprise Development Office-Solid Waste Management Division.
The aforesaid guidelines and protocols will be strictly implemented by the Kalibo police station to be assisted by the Bureau of Fire Protection, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Transport and Traffic Management Division, and the Kalibo Auxiliary Police under the Municipal Economic Enterprise Development Office, barangay tanods, and other concerned offices. (PIA)/PN
