By DIANN IVY CALUCIN
Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie "Wes" Gatchalian announced on Friday, Oct. 21, the city's protocols and guidelines for the observance of "Undas 2022."
The city government said all city cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaries will be open from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1. Visitation will only be allowed from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Senior citizens, immunocompromised individuals, and physically incapacitated individuals are encouraged to celebrate at home. Unvaccinated individuals and children ages 11 years old and below will not be allowed to enter the premises.
Gatchalian said vendors will have designated areas outside the public cemeteries. Owners and officials of private cemeteries can allow vendors at their discretion.
The mayor reminded the public that alcoholic beverages, videoke or sound systems, sharp objects, flammable and explosive materials, firearms, and gambling will be prohibited inside the premises.
He also stressed that the use of face masks and social distancing will be implemented inside the premises.
The city government also issued a liquor ban in barangays where the cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaries are located, including Karuhutan, Maysan, Lawang Bato, Palasan, Veinte Reales and Arkong Bato.
Gatchalian added that the malls, convenience, and sari-sari stores in the said barangays will be included in the issuance of the liquor ban.
Holloween parties and trick or treats activities will be prohibited in the city.
Gatchalian warned the residents that there will be corresponding penalty fees for violating the protocols.
The penalty charges will be P1,000 or 24 hours of community service for first time offenders, P3,000 or 48 hours of community service for those caught the second time, and P5,000 or 72 hours of community service for third time offenders.
The mayor said the city government will also charge penalty fees for establishments that will not comply with city guidelines.