Christmas celebrations will push through this coming holiday season amid the COVID-19 pandemic but big crowds and large gatherings remain prohibited.
Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) Co-Chairperson and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles reiterated the guidelines of the health department that attendees of celebrations in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) shall be strictly limited to 10 people only.
Health protocols are still required, especially the wearing of face mask, face shield, other protective equipment, observance of social distancing, and proper ventilation.
Authorities encourage the gathering of same household or family members only and to do away with buffet-style celebrations.
“It will be a new experience for everybody. Maaaring maraming tradisyon ang hindi magagawa, pero isipin na lang natin na gagawa tayo ng panibagong tradisyon, practices basta i-ensure lang po natin na ligtas ang lahat (Many traditions will not be observed, but we should think of creating new traditions and practices as long as we ensure the safety of everyone),” Nograles advised.
For areas under modified GCQ, Nograles urged to limit attendees to 50 people in one place and to follow a 50-percent capacity for each venue.
Those with COVID-19 symptoms are advised to avoid joining gatherings to ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals.
Meanwhile, local government units are given until November 28 to raise their appeals on the proposed quarantine classification for the month of December. – Report from Daniel Manalastas
