By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD City – Emergency Operations Center (EOC) executive director Em Ang urged the public to limit Christmas celebrations within the household to avoid the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 or COVID-19.
Ang said it is also for the safety of everybody that at this time of the pandemic we make a little sacrifice.
Although personally, she said she misses all those Christmas celebrations last year.
Ang also said that while the spread of the virus in the city is “under control,” there is no room for complacency.
“We are looking forward to a zero case in one day,” Ang said
So far, she said the city recently recorded single digit cases and at one time only one case was reported in one day.
“We should preserve our gains against COVID-19,” she added.
Meanwhile, Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia issued Executive Order No. 81 prohibiting face-to-face caroling during Christmas holidays.
Exchanging of gifts is also discouraged during gatherings as part of Bacolod City’s continuing response to curb the spread of COVID-19.
“There is a need to finalize the particular guidelines on the holiday season amidst the Covid-19 pandemic so people may celebrate safely and with vigilance,” the mayor said.
EO 81 stated these health measures should be observed for the holiday season effective immediately.
It added that caroling is “only allowed when this activity is done virtually or through online means, or by family members living in the same household and that the act is conducted within the confines of their homes.”
Moreover, “(e)veryone is strongly encouraged to conduct Christmas and New Year gathering with attendees limited to members of the family living in the same household. Work or non-family related Christmas parties or gatherings are highly discouraged,” it further said.
Also, “families not living in the same household who wish to get together (should hold) gathering outdoors and with a proper observance of physical distancing.”
“Virtual get-togethers and Christmas and New Year parties or gatherings held within the premises of one’s home are highly encouraged,” it said.
The guidelines also advised to sanitize gifts people receive and practice hand hygiene after opening the same.
