AS THE fiesta of different barangays in Santo Tomas town Pampanga nears, the local government has set regulations for a safe celebration.
Mayor Gloria "Ninang" Ronquillo issued Executive Order (EO) No. 1 S. 2021, which regulates the movement of people, as well as holding different activities related to the fiesta celebration.
The EO noted that the celebration of masses are allowed but only up to 50-percent capacity inside the churches. Extension on spaces outside of chapels are also allowed provided social distancing and other minimum health standards are observed.
Religious images must only be paraded onboard vehicles in place of the foot or traditional procession, which is prohibited by the local government.
Kissing or touching of images of patron saints, as well as holding Ati-atihan or any similar events, and presence of rolling stores of any type are likewise banned.
The EO also prohibited the drinking of alcoholic beverages and the use of videoke machines in public places a day before, during and a day after fiesta celebrations.
Ronquillo said minimum health standards will regularly be implemented by local police and firemen to prevent the possible spread of the coronavirus.