By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The town of Don Salvador Benedicto in Negros Occidental has temporarily ceased excursion activities in the locality as the number of coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19, cases continues to rise.

As of September 22, the municipal  health office recorded 30 active COVID-19 cases after recording five new cases. The town’s confirmed cases have now reached 95.

Based on an executive order (EO) signed by Mayor Marxlen Dela Cruz, excursion activities such as rides, swimming, camping, and hiking are temporarily suspended until further notice in order to prevent crowding.

The EO added that gatherings such as weddings, baptisms, burials, birthdays, and other types of social events are allowed but it shall be coordinated first with the barangay officials and shall only be limited to family members or close relatives.

The municipality will also implement the 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. curfew while the town’s market day is also suspended.

Dela Cruz is also appealing to local residents for their cooperation and continue following minimum health protocols./DGB, WDJ