AFTER the Archdiocese of Cebu announced the suspension of Masses in Cebu City chapels because of the rising Covid-19 cases, a police official reminded barangay captains to take an active role in monitoring any mass gathering in their areas or they may face criminal charges if they fail to do so.

Lt. Col. Wilbert Parilla, deputy director for operation of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), said on Tuesday, July 6, 2021, that President Rodrigo Duterte had ordered the police to press charges against village chiefs who failed to prevent or break up any event that gather a large number of participants or spectators.

The CCPO will also deploy its personnel to monitor the chapels in Cebu City’s 80 barangays. They will also be getting help from Task Force Kasaligan, a group of civilians who roam neighborhoods to remind residents to follow community quarantine protocols such as observing social distancing, avoiding mass gatherings and wearing masks.

Suspension