By Armando B. Fenequito Jr. DAVAO CITY -- The government of Davao del Sur has now placed the whole province under community quarantine as a preventive measure against the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Governor Douglas Cagas issued Executive Order No. 20, series of 2020 on Tuesday, establishing the Guidelines on the Implementation of Proclamation No. 922 of President Duterte that declared a state of public health emergency in the country as a response to a possible COVID-19 outbreak. With the implementation of thr order, the province will be implementing strict preventive and safety measures to address the threats of the coronavirus in their area. “The protection of lives, safety, and well-being of the constituents of Davao del Sur, including the province's visitors, shall be promoted to the highest degree, above all other economic, social, and political agenda of this administration,” he said. Cagas said, in the order, the public was advised to stay in their respective homes and shall only leave for very important and urgent reasons such as going to work, buying food and medicines, and going to hospitals. He said all public or mass gatherings in the 232 barangays, nine municipalities, and a city throughout the province shall be suspended. “Weddings, baptisms, and similar ceremonies will be allowed. However, holding of receptions will be prohibited,” he said. The governor said all cockpit arenas will be temporarily closed as per Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Advisory dated March 14 or the ban on cock fighting. “Existing laws on illegal gambling such as but not limited to hantak, card games like tong-its, and mahjong shall be strictly enforced,” he said. He said all religious institutions are highly encouraged to observe social distancing and other preventive and safety measures in conducting their religious activities. “Social distancing should be strictly and strongly implemented,” he said. READ MORE: DOH confirms 45 new COVID-19 cases; total now at 187