The city government has permitted the setup of 15 booths at the Ganza Parking lot where candles and flowers may be bought for the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’
In a meeting last Oct. 14, City Administrator Bonifacio dela Peña said selling will be from Oct. 26 to Nov. 1.
He also announced the venues where flowers may be sold wholesale: the former City Auditorium parking area from Oct. 27 to 31 from 7 p.m. to midnight; Jose Abad Santos Drive on Oct. 26 to 31 from 7 p.m. to midnight; the Rabbit sinkhole along Magsaysay Avenue on Oct. 26 to Nov. 1 from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m.; and at the market on Oct. 26 to Nov. 1 from 2 to 5 a.m.
Some of the areas are used as jeepney loading areas, thus the time differences, dela Peña clarified.
The City Environment and Parks Management Office has already cleared alleys in the city cemetery, while the General Services Office has assured that garbage trucks will be on standby at the cemetery on Nov. 1.
Baguio City Police Office Chief of Operations Johnny Balaki reported an adequate number of police force will be deployed not only at the public cemetery but also at the Baguio Memorial Park, Benin, Everlasting, Pyramid, Heaven’s Garden, Loakan and Bakakeng cemeteries. Evacuation plans, including access routes in case of emergencies, are also in place, with medical personnel and services readily available, he said.
The public is forewarned not to bring prohibited items to the cemeteries such as bladed tools and weapons, firearms, liquor, cigar/cigarettes, kite and kite-making paraphernalia, and loud music makers. These will be confiscated and tagged at the gate, and returned afterwards. Gambling and selling of food and flowers are also prohibited in the cemetery.
Dela Peña scheduled a cemetery walk through with concerned offices and agencies on Oct. 30.
The BCPO has yet to finalize rerouting plans and designated parking areas for Nov. 1. – Julie G. Fianza
April 27, 2024
