By Ralph John Mijares and Edalyn Acta
ROXAS CITY – The city government will suspend this year’s celebration of the Sinadya Festival, which is slated next month, to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease.
Mayor Ronnie Dadivas, in an executive order issued recently, said the suspension covers all the activities, but not limited to parades, street dance competitions, exhibits, talent/singing/dance shows, roadshows, beauty/costume/pyrotechnic contests, open concerts, sports, cockfights, open market, foods/plants/wares/apparel fairs, industrial or commercial fairs, or other forms of public selling, transactions, or interactions at public roads, streets, alleys, parks, and squares.
Holding the activities virtually without audiences or face to face contacts but complying with existing health protocols may be allowed by the city government, the EO said.
Masses on the feast of the Immaculate Conception may proceed, but it must comply with minimum health standards.
Other events such as fluvial procession, “Prosesyon sang mga Patron,” and “Misa sa Plaza” are also suspended as it draws uncontrolled crowds, the order said.
However, alternative religious events can proceed but these would also be subjected to prior review before implementation, the EO added.
The Business Permit and Licensing Office would not issue permits or licenses for any activity or event related to the festival and those that were approved before the order was issued were canceled, too.
Violators will be criminally and administratively liable.*
