(PNA Bacolod file photo)
BACOLOD CITY – The City of Sipalay in Negros Occidental has prohibited mass gatherings and canceled all tourism activities starting Friday amid the increasing local cases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) and ongoing contact tracing activities.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson lauded the action of the city government led by Mayor Maria Gina Lizares to be proactive in their response.
“I commend her for that,” Lacson said in a virtual press briefing.
In Executive Order (EO) 2021-010, Lizares cited data as of April 15, showing that the city has 182 confirmed cases, including 13 new local cases, bringing its total active cases to 23.
“With the ongoing contact tracing and pending test results, there is a possibility of a surge in confirmed cases in the city,” she added.
As such, “all big events, mass gatherings, barangay assemblies, congregations in places of worship, weddings, baptisms, etc. shall not be allowed.”
Lizares also ordered the temporary closure of all tourism accommodation establishments in the city and a halt to all tourism activities.
Those with confirmed bookings have been requested to contact the concerned accommodation establishment for rebooking or cancellation arrangements.
Accommodation establishments, such as pension houses, inns, and lodges, shall be allowed to operate at 30 percent capacity but can only accept authorized persons outside residence (APORs) and personnel delivering essential goods.
Upon entry, APORs shall be required to present a company or government identification card, travel itinerary, and travel order at the border checkpoint.
Those coming from identified high-risk areas with a work itinerary of more than two consecutive days shall be required to stay within the city.
While EO 2021-010 is in effect, non-resident private property owners shall be denied entry to Sipalay.
Moreover, all establishments in the city shall be closed for disinfection during Sundays.
Sipalay, located in southern Negros, is the province’s top tourism destination known for its beautiful beaches and breathtaking dive sites. (PNA)
