SAN SIMON -- Public and private cemeteries in this town will be temporarily closed from October 1 to November 2, 2020.
Mayor Abundio Punsalan, Jr. signed Executive Order (EO) No. 38 S. 2020 ahead of All Saints' and Souls' Days where an influx of people is expected in cemeteries.
Under the EO, barangay officials with cemeteries in their jurisdiction, as well as local police, and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office will guard all cemeteries to ensure the public's compliance.
Punsalan said the move is part of the local government's program to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in the community.
He said quick transmission of the virus might occur if the traditional way of observing Undas at memorial parks will be allowed.
"We value the tradition of most Filipinos observing of Undas as a way of remembering our departed loved ones but in this time of pandemic, we cannot risk the health of the people," the mayor explained.
He urged Simonians to honor their departed loved ones at their respective homes instead until the pandemic is over.
"We can light candles, offer flowers or say our prayers in our homes for the meantime. For now, the safety of the people is our top priority," Punsalan said.