Man faces raps for violating COVID-19 social distancing measures

For leading a religious event in Cagayan de Oro City attended by some 500 people, a man is now facing raps for violating social distancing measures as part of efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019.

In a Facebook post, the city’s Regulatory Compliance Board said the event was organized by the Word of God Spirit & Life Ministries, Inc.

Man being apprehended for organizing religious event in violation of COVID-19 social distancing measures in Cagayan de Oro City. --CDO Regulatory Compliance Board

The event violated city ordinance ordering residents to observe social distancing measures, and prohibiting mass gatherings.

According to the board, criminal cases for violation of Article 151 of the Revised Penal Code and Republic Act 11332 are now being readied against the organizer of the event.

The city government has also ordered the closure of the establishment.

Social distancing measures are being enforced by authorities nationwide to contain the spread of the new coronavirus, which has so far claimed 152 lives and infected over 3,000 people across the country. —Julia Mari Ornedo/LBG, GMA News