BACOLOD CITY – The city government of Bacolod and provincial government of Negros Occidental have ordered residents to refrain from going to beach resorts and water parks during the Feast of St. John on June 24 in order to prevent influx of people that may cause the possible increase on the local transmission of COVID-19.

Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson has issued an executive order for the closure of all beaches, resorts, and water parks from June 23 to June 25 in line with the Feast of San John, to avoid COVID-19 super spreader activities.

People would usually flock to the beach and water parks to celebrate the occasion with their loved ones. But, with the ongoing pandemic, mass gathering is strictly prohibited to prevent the transmission of the virus.

Police Lt. Abegael Donasco, Negros Occidental police information officer, said that police chiefs already talked with the resort owners and barangay officials in their respective areas to remind them of the governor’s order, as sanctions may be imposed on them if they commit violations.

Although there is no need for police deployment, Donasco said that policemen will conduct patrolling in the resorts to ensure that nobody violates the protocol.

For Bacolod, the city officials thanked the resorts and cafe owners for agreeing to close their establishments on June 24.

Mayor Evelio Leonardia said that such development is a big boost to the city’s efforts to contain the spread of the virus.

Both LGUs have recently expressed concern as COVID-19 cases continue to rise, affecting more residents.

“At this time, when our COVID-19 numbers are still high, the cooperation of everybody is a must,” Leonardia said.