Iloilo City PNP to strictly implement ‘no vax, no entry’ policy for Undas

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Persons who remain unvaccinated against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) will not be allowed into cemeteries and memorial parks during the observance of the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days on Nov. 1 and 2, 2022.

This, as the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) reiterated that it has already mapped out security preparation for the traditional “Undas.”

Major Shella Mae Sangrines, ICPO spokesperson, said that they will strictly implement the “no vaccine, no entry” policy, as stipulated in Executive Order Number 085 issued and signed by Mayor Jerry P Trenas on October 17.

The order stated that only individuals who are partially or fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can enter cemeteries and memorial parks.

“Our policemen and other law-enforcement agencies will only allow vaccinated individuals to enter private and public cemeteries as a measure to minimize the spread of the covid-19 virus. Only those with vaccination cards will be allowed to enter the said places,” Sangrines said.

She added that they already held meetings and had coordinated with the local government, barangay officials, volunteer/ advocacy groups, and the Public Safety and Transportation Management Office (PSTMO).

The PNP is also on full alert status as the country during the traditional visit to cemeteries and memorial parks.

At least 300 ICPO personnel will be deployed in various cemeteries/memorial parks, major thoroughfares, transportation hubs, vital installations, and other places of convergence in the metropolis.

Skeletal deployment will begin Oct 28, 2022

Sangrines said Police Assistance Desks (PADs) manned by policemen and other volunteer groups will be stationed in these areas to respond immediately to any eventualities.

She again reiterated that some things would be prohibited to be brought inside the cemeteries and memorial parks.

These include selling or bringing intoxicating beverages; carrying firearms and other deadly weapons; gambling; smoking; and karaoke.

Meanwhile, the ICPO also reminded the public to be always vigilant to avoid being victimized by criminals.