Pilgrims cross a river to get to the Guadalupe Shrine in Cagayan de Oro City on Maundy Thursday. PHOTO FROM CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY MAYOR’S OFFICE
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando Uy has ordered the activation of disaster response teams in every barangay amid the expected convergence of people in churches and pilgrimage sites, as well as in resorts and leisure destinations owing to the long holiday.
On Thursday, Catholic faithfuls trooped to the Guadalupe Shrine in Barangay Balubal, crossing a river just to reach the religious site.
There, rescuers from the police and local government, and volunteers, alongside village watchmen and officials, assisted the devotees.
Uy’s order banned smoking and the bringing of liquor into these sites, and also the entry of persons who are below 15 years old. Bringing of weapons, lighters, matches, speakers, sound systems and similar items are also prohibited in the pilgrimage sites.
The Guadalupe Shrine is ordered opened from 4 a.m. to 5 p.m. while another pilgrimage site in Malasag village, from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m. Overnight camping is banned.
Uy also cited the need to keep a close watch on beaches, rivers and creeks which can be convergence points for recreational swimming, especially on Easter Sunday. Private establishments that operate beaches and pools were required to have lifeguards and safety officers, and if possible, standby medical teams.
“Those under the influence of liquor or any alcoholic beverages shall be prohibited from swimming,” Uy’s order read. Ryan D. Rosauro, Inquirer Mindanao
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