Valencia City allows liquor, Ozamiz City approves masses

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY –– Valencia City in Bukidnon province has lifted its liquor ban this week, but warned drinkers they have to strictly follow quarantine measures before they could buy alcoholic drinks and intoxicating liquor.

Valencia City Mayor Azucena Huervas said the city’s liquor ban had been amended to allow supermarkets, groceries, sari-sari stores, fast food stores, and restaurants to sell, purchase, and distribute alcoholic drinks during the general community quarantine period in the city.

“(As long as) these establishments sell only up to 4 p.m.,” Huervas said.

Huervas said drinking alcoholic beverages would be allowed only at home since it was still strictly prohibited in public places.

She urged the public to observe physical distancing even at home and designated the local police to strictly enforce the new directive.

In Ozamiz City, Mayor Sancho Fernando Oaminal said he would allow the holding of holy masses and other religious activities in the city this week.

Oaminal said he would ease restrictions on religious activities as long as several health protocols are followed, a decision received well by Archbishop Martin Jumaod, who profusely thanked the mayor.

Jumaod urged priests and parishioners to strictly observe physical distancing, wearing of masks and sanitizing of hands during masses and other religious activities.

Jumaod also promised foot baths to be provided at church entrances in Ozamiz City.

He also urged other mayors of towns and the cities of Oroquieta and Tangub to follow the example of Oaminal in allowing the holding of masses and other religious activities.

LZB