THE City Government of Bago has cancelled all planned big events, mass gatherings and activities during its 54th Charter Anniversary celebration amid 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) scare.

The eight-day activity is supposed to be held starting Tuesday, February 11, until February 19 this year.

The cancellation was by virtue of Sangguniang Panlungsod Resolution No. 20-082 approved by the members in a special session yesterday.

The resolution cited the advisory issued by the Department of Health (DOH) on February 7, which stated that with the ongoing threat of the 2019 novel coronavirus - acute respiratory disease (2019-nCoV ARD), the public is strongly urged to avoid attending, participating and organizing events that draw a huge number of people.

The DOH likewise recommended the cancellation of such planned big events or mass gatherings until further advice.

To further minimize the risk of contracting 2019-nCoV ARD, the public is advised to avoid crowded places and continue to practice self-protection measures, the advisory added.

The City Council, in the approved resolution, said it is the intention of the local officials and functionaries of the city government to ensure the safety, health and well-being of the constituency and visiting tourists and guests during fiestas and celebration.

For his part, Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo said “the city government does not want to compromise the health and safety of the residents as well as the visitors” so cancellation has to be done.

Local health authorities Monday said six persons under investigation (PUIs) were tested negative for the virus.

They form part of at least nine patients from Bacolod City and Negros Occidental, who were quarantined for suspected nCoV.

Though the entire province remains nCoV-free, measures are being put in place to prevent its possible spread.