Alvin M. Keeling 
A caro carrying the crucified Jesus Christ is part of the procession on Bantayan Island, Cebu during Holy Week in this 2017 file photo.
Alegria, Cebu—The provincial government of Cebu will now allow Lenten activities and events to return, two years after they were suspended due to the pandemic.
Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia issued Executive Order (EO) No. 12 on Wednesday, March 16, 2021, effectively easing restrictions on religious activities for the upcoming Holy Week.
“With the steady decline in COVID-19 cases in Cebu, increased vaccination coverage, the continued implementation of minimum public health standards and after due consultation with stakeholders, the Cebu Provincial Government deems it prudent to recalibrate protocols. and existing guidelines relevant to the observance of religious activities,” said portions of the two-page EO.
Garcia will authorize the conduct of
Via Crucis, Visita Iglesia and processions in the province, provided there is coordination with the relevant local authorities and law enforcement agencies.
The governor has also increased the seating capacity of all parish churches to 75%.
“Churches are strongly encouraged to appoint parish ushers or ushers to guide congregants to available scats and, if necessary, to draw the attention of those who may have caused overcrowding on a particular pew,” added the EO.
Additionally, the Capitol urged local officials to ensure that minimum health protocols are implemented when observing religious activities.
Cebu province remains under Alert Level 2, in which gatherings are permitted, subject to several conditions such as capacity caps.
/bmjo
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