• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The wearing of face masks during this year Panaad sa Negros festival, slated for April 17 to 23, remains optional, according to Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz.
Diaz said that Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson did not issue any order for the public who will troop to the Panaad Festival site in Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City, to wear face masks.
The statement was made by Diaz following the issuance of an order by Mayor Jerry Treñas that requires all those having with transactions at the Iloilo City Hall to wear face masks.
Diaz reported that Negros Occidental logged five COVID-19 cases at the Cadiz District Hospital, which he said cannot be considered as alarming.
He also confirmed the attendance of Senator Bong Go during the opening of Panaad sa Negros Festival on April 17, aside from Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, and Senator Francis Tolentino.
The Philippine National Police will enforce a gun ban during the duration of Panaad sa Negros festival, as confirmed by provincial police spokesman PCapt. Judesses Catalogo.
Only members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Police and other law enforcement agencies are allowed to carry guns, provided they are in uniforms.*
