No outdoor Eid’l Adha prayers in Cotabato

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — The city mayor’s office has banned outdoor prayers in celebration of Eid’l Adha on Friday as part of coronavirus disease 2019 containment efforts.

Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi said Eid’l Adha prayers are only allowed in mosques, buildings and other closed spaces, subject to COVID-19 health protocols.

“Worshippers should wear masks and observe social distancing while participating in Eid’l Adha prayers in mosques and other buildings where it can be done,” Sayadi said.

Ten COVID-19 cases were recorded in this city as of this month.

The Eid’l Adha or feast of sacrifice is one of the two biggest feasts of Islam. It starts on Thursday night and ends on Friday night.

Sayadi issued Executive Order (EO) 358 on Monday prohibiting outdoor Eid’l Adha prayers.

The EO also mandates barangay officials as well as city police office and 2nd Marine Battalion personnel to ensure order during the celebration.