KALIBO, Aklan – Local government units (LGUs) in Aklan are prohibiting swimming in beaches and public pools tomorrow, June 24, to reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
June 24 is the feast of St. John the Baptist. In predominantly Christian Philippines, Filipinos traditionally celebrate it by going to beaches or playfully dousing one another with water – a nod to the saint’s having baptized Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.
Banga, Aklan’s Mayor Erlinda Maming banned swimming in rivers inland resorts.
New Washington, Aklan’s Mayor Shimonette Francisco ordered similar measures effective for four days – from June 23 to 26.
“There is a need to close all public beaches, swimming pools and inland bodies of water to safeguard the health and safety of residents,” Francisco stressed.
In Kalibo, the ban is for a day – June 24 only. Mayor Emerson Lachica prohibited swimming, celebrations and gatherings in beaches, riverbanks and swimming pools in hotels and resorts.
In the town of Makato, the ban is for three days – June 23 to 25 – said Mayor Abencio Torres.
The ban is six days long in the municipality of Ibajay – from June 24 up to the feast of Saint Peter the Apostle on June 28 to 29.
Mayor Jose Enrique Miraflores said the ban covers mass gatherings, celebrations and swimming along the beaches, rivers and waterfalls, and resort pools.
The longest is in the town of Numancia. Mayor Jeserel Templonuevo ordered the closure of beaches and resorts for nine days – from June 19 to 27./PN
