IT WILL be a solemn and “fun-free” observance of Holy Week in the City of San Fernando this year as the City Government here devolved the staging of “Maleldo” 2018 to participating villages particularly on Good Friday, March 30.
Veteran broadcaster Alberto Santiago, who chairs this year’s “Maleldo” executive committee, said the City Government has transferred the preparations and management of Holy Week activities like the “Via Crucis” to village chiefs and their respective councils.
The City Government, he said, has allocated funds to three villages which are the three staging areas of “Maleldo.”
“Barangay San Pedro Cutud where the “Via Crucis” will be staged will receive P250,000 subsidy from the City Government while nearby villages San Juan and Sta. Lucia will get P150,000 each and the 32 other villages P15,000 each,” Santiago said during Monday’s Kapihan at Talakayan at city hall.
“The City Government will still, however, monitor peace and order and manage traffic in those areas, as well as provide the necessary logistical support like equipment and personnel including an incident command center since we expect thousands of spectators and tourists to flock to these Maleldo staging areas,” he said.
Santiago added that the same rules apply to this year’s “Maleldo” rites.
“The same rules will apply. Foreigners will not be allowed to be nailed on crosses as well minors participating in crucifixion. The city government will strictly monitor peace and order to ensure the solemn observance of Holy Week,” he said. (JTD)