The entire Christendom will observe the holiest week of the year of the Roman Catholic Church calendar beginning on Palm Sunday, April 2, to Easter Sunday, April 9, this year.
Traditionally, thousands of Christian faithful would converge at the Climaco Freedom Park in Abong-Abong, Barangay Pasonanca, this city on Thursday and Friday of the Holy Week to reflect on the passion and death of Jesus Christ at the 14 Stations of the Cross.
To ensure the security and solemnity of the annual religious event, Mayor John Dalipe has issued an executive order prescribing certain restrictions that that pilgrims have to observe at the park in Abong-Abong.
In his Executive Order No. JD 030 dated March 1, 2023, Dalipe strictly prohibits the bringing, selling and/or drinking of liquor and other intoxicating drinks, audio or video equipment, playing of loud music; bringing of firearms, bladed weapons and other similar items within the vicinity of the Climaco Park in Abong-Abong from April 5 to 9.
Likewise, Holy Week pilgrims to Abong-Abong are strongly advised not to bring backpacks for security purposes and entry to the park may be denied, at the discretion of the police.
Flying of drones is also prohibited in the area, except those operated by the City Administrator’s Office, the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Violators of the executive order will be subjected to investigation, filing of suit and/or fine, if so warranted under existing laws and ordinances.
The local chief executive has also directed the Joint Task Force Zamboanga (JTFZ) to assist the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) in the enforcement of EO 030. (Vic Larato)
(Source: City Government of Zamboanga Facebook page)
