ALL cemeteries, memorial parks and columbaria in the country will be closed from October 29 to November 2 to minimize the risk of the coronavirus disease spreading, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said Tuesday night.
Año, during the talk to the People address of President Duterte, advised the public to visit cemeteries and pay respects to departed loved ones on days other than the traditional All Saints’ Day-All Souls’ Day holidays on November 1 to November 2, respectively.
He said the Interagency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) has issued guidelines to guide the local government units (LGUs) and cemetery and columbarium operators during the holidays.
Under the guidelines, cemeteries are allowed visitors of up to 30 percent capacity, and requires the strict observance of the minimum public health standards.
LGUS were also asked to work with the PNP and barangay officials to ensure compliance with health protocols.
He said LGUs must also pass ordinances or executive orders to implement measures during the observance of undas.
Similar measures were also observed during the undas last year.
