Magalong mulls resumption of church services in Baguio City
BAGUIO CITY – Mayor Benjamin Magalong agreed to reopen church services during the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), subject to the health and safety guidelines on coronavirus disease (COVID-19) prevention and control.
In a consultation meeting with leaders of the religious organizations last June 3, Magalong asked them to submit their own health and safety guidelines that will be observed in their respective churches.
He also said ocular inspections will be conducted in the churches, mosques or prayer halls.
Magalong said services will only commence after the approval of the guidelines and issuance of certificates of compliance by the city government.
Some of the rules discussed during the consultation meeting were limiting attendees to 10 percent of the capacity of the church, mosque or prayer hall. Senior citizens and those younger than 20 will be allowed to join Sunday services, but Sunday school for children will not be allowed still.
Magalong also underscored strict observance of all health protocols in the churches like one meter-radius physical distancing, use of masks and availability of alcohol, list of attendees with details must be made available for contact tracing; and time of Sunday services shall only be from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Church leaders, led by Baguio Apostolic Vicar Rev. Victor Bendico of the Catholic Church, Rev. Pastor Robbie Casas of the Protestant churches and Rev. Pastor Voltaire Acosta who heads the Presidential Commission on Religious Affairs, committed to comply with all the precautionary measures as they did not want to jeopardize the programs of the city government in its fight against COVID-19.