ILOILO City – Churches in the city and province of Iloilo are wary of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.While mass gatherings inside churches are allowed at 50 percent capacity under Alert Level 2, strict health protocols are put in place.
According to Father Angelo Colada, director of the Archdiocese of Jaro’s Commission on Social Communications, churches should not become a source of coronavirus transmission.
In the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral, devotees still follow the markers placed on pews.
Hand sanitizers are also being placed at the entrance of the church, and communion by hand and the strict “one entrance, one exit” policies are observed.
Weddings with entourage, baptisms and other activities are also allowed.
Meanwhile, Colada encouraged senior citizens to stay home and attend Masses online or via television.
“Wala kita naga kumpiyansa until matapos ang tanan.Padayon nga mag halong,” added Colada.
On the other hand, Board Member Matt Palabrica of Iloilo’s 3rd District and an active member of the Bingawan Baptist Church said despite the gentler quarantine measures in the province, the implementation of health protocols remains strict.
According to Palabrica, the Bingawan Baptist Church created a COVID-19 control committee that decides on the protocols to be implemented based on the executive order issued by the provincial and local governments.
Among the protocols implemented are social distancing of two meters and placing hand sanitizers at the entrance of the church.
They also separate unvaccinated senior citizens.
The church also allows minors to enter the church, provided they are accompanied by a vaccinated guardian or parent.
They also require that the pastor, musician, choir and all staff be fully vaccinated.
With the province’s quarantine measures in place, Bingawan Baptist Church has also allowed other activities such as prayer meetings, bible study and baptisms./PN
