MANILA – The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is urging local government units to prohibit karaoke sessions ahead of the holidays to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
“Sabi ng DOH (Department of Health) mas higit na nakakahawa ‘pag ikaw ay kumakanta kumpara sa nagsasalita,” Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said in an interview with ABS-CBN’s Teleradyo on Thursday.
Prior to the proposed ban, several local authorities have already prohibited daytime karaoke sessions so students on distance learning and those working from home will not be disturbed.
Meanwhile, DILG Assistant Secretary Odilon Pasaraba said LGUs can control the number of attendees in fireworks displays and other Christmas season events amid the pandemic.
“LGUs may limit the number of attendees of public gatherings, fireworks displays, and other events,” Pasaraba said. “Health protocols and mitigating measures must be enforced in all community fireworks displays and other activities this holiday season.”
Pasaraba also reminded LGUs to be conscious of the possible effect of these gatherings to the COVID-19 situation in their respective areas.
Despite allowing these events, Pasaraba said LGUs are also encouraged to promote safer alternatives such as virtual celebrations or small gatherings.
LGUs should also identify locations as firecracker zones or areas that are safe for the display or exhibition of fireworks and other pyrotechnics./PN
