Filipinos are accustomed to visiting their bereaved love ones in a cemetery each year but due to this pandemic, it has brought a new way of doing it as cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbarium are off-limits to the public these All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Mayor Edgar Labella has issued an executive order imposing a temporary closure of places from October 3, 2020, to November 3, 2020, considering that the city is still in the middle of fighting the coronavirus pandemic.
“There is a need for the city government of Cebu to temporarily close memorial parks, cemeteries and columbaries in the City during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, as well as the days leading to and after these events to prevent the expected influx and gathering of people inside these areas,” read Labella’s Executive Order No. 92.
Cemeteries, memorial parks and columbarium that will violate the order may face revocation of mayor’s permit and business permit.
However, Archbishop Jose Palma of the Archdiocese of Cebu once again reminded the people to still continue their devotion to prayers at home as it is the most important thing during the event.
Meanwhile, selling of flowers continues at Freedom Park, despite the pandemic for the reason that flower is the main source of income for over 500 vendors and establishments in Cebu City, especially during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Vendors continue selling flowers for the Undas Season despite the lack of customers and small profit because they need to survive the financial challenges brought about by the pandemic.
In addition to that, visiting the dead and bringing them flowers is a tradition deeply embedded in Filipino culture, making it difficult for everyone to skip the tradition this year.
___________________________ Words by: Ritchelle Lariosa Layout by: Shella Arela Carpina
DilaabPub
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