The city government of Davao prohibits Halloween events and Christmas parties to avoid unnecessary gathering of people while the COVID-19 cases in the city continue to surge. (davaotoday.com file photo)
DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Halloween and Christmas parties, including ‘trick-or-treat’ events in public will be prohibited by the city government to prevent the spread and transmission of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
In its advisory released Wednesday morning, the city government prohibits government and private offices, restaurants, business establishments, home associations, community organizations, barkadahan, tropa, churches, and all other groups, associations and organizations from holding trick-or-treat and other Halloween events, Christmas party and other related holiday celebrations.
“Davao City, just like the rest of the world, continues to face the threat of the pandemic. Cases are still surging and it is feared that more and more deaths will happen if the unnecessary gathering of people is allowed,” the advisory said.
The city government explained that holding such activities may increase the risk of the transmission of the coronavirus. It also emphasized to the public to stay at home, avoid places where people converge, and refrain from attending unnecessary gatherings this holiday season as the virus continues to spread in the city.
“It is feared that more and more deaths will happen,” the advisory said. Davao City now has a total of 2,853 COVID-19 cases based on reports of DOH-Davao as of October 21.
“This year, celebrations will only be truly special and meaningful if you, your family, and everyone in our communities are healthy and safe. It would be a good idea to give grocery items for ‘noche buena’ to a family in need rather than spending money for a party and risk contracting the virus,” the advisory added.
“For Christmas, celebrate with your families. Celebrate intimately; use online shopping of groceries, food delivery services, and other contactless services. And please, stay home — as it is the best place to celebrate and experience a truly merry Christmas and welcome a happy new year.”
Earlier this month, the city government also released an advisory to limit public activities in observance of All Saints and All Souls Day this coming November 1 and 2.
Public cemeteries, memorial parks, including the columbariums will be closed from October 29 to November 4 in compliance with Inter-Agency Task Force Resolution No. 72 Series of 2020, September 17, 2020. While cemeteries will only be open from October 29 to November 4 for burial rites, birthday celebrations of the deceased, and commemoration of the death of the deceased. Social distancing and face masks are to be observed in this events. Backpacks, jackets and liquor are not prohibited in the area.
There will also be strict compliance with the wearing face mask and practicing social distancing. The public is also prohibited from bringing backpacks and wearing jackets. (davaotoday.com)
covid-19, Covid-19 in Davao City, Covid-19 in Davao Region, Covid-19 statistics, Covid-19 update, davao city, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, davao city news, davao region, Department of Health, Mindanao, Region 11
