The Pasig City government has implemented a barangay coding scheme for cemetery visits ahead of its week-long temporary closure.
The Inter-Agency Task Force recently ordered the closure of all public and private cemeteries from October 29 to November 4, except for burial and cremation services.
This is to prevent the mass gathering of people in cemeteries amid the continuing threat of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
However, the local government of Pasig City has decided to allow regulated visits in cemeteries from October 26 to 28 and from November 5 to 7.
“To prevent the influx of people, the Barangay Coding Scheme will be implemented on the said dates to give every Pasigueño the opportunity to visit their bereaved loved ones,” the city government said in an advisory.
Only residents of Pasig are allowed to enter the cemeteries from October 26 to 28 and November 5 to 7. Visitors have to bring proof of residency such as an ID or a barangay certificate.
“Non-residents of Pasig will be allowed to enter on days not scheduled for Pasig residents before October 26 or after November 7,” it said.
The city government said only 30 percent of the cemetery’s total capacity is allowed to be occupied so the number of people permitted to enter will be regulated.
In accordance with the quarantine guidelines, only those aged 18 to 65 years old are allowed to go out of their homes and visit cemeteries.
Mayor Vico Sotto said the local government has designated an area near the Pasig Mega Market for flower vendors.
“Tuwing Valentines at Undas lang sila nakakabenta. Mas mabuti na ring nandito sila para mas maluwag at open air (They can only make profit during Valentines and Undas seasons. It is better that they are there for the area is more spacious and open air),” Sotto said.