IN a recent announcement during Monday morning's flag-raising program, Mayor Rolando 'Klarex' Uy announced that he had directed the city police to implement a 'One Entrance' policy within all churches across the city.
The decision comes in response to the tragic event that unfolded at the Mindanao State University (MSU) gym in Marawi City on Sunday, resulting in the loss of four lives and numerous injuries.
"The primary objective behind this policy is to ensure public safety and prevent similar incidents from occurring within the city's places of worship," said City Mayor's Office Chief of Staff Shiela Lumbatan.
By mandating a single point of entry, Lumbatan said the local authorities believe they can effectively control and monitor the flow of individuals entering the churches, thereby enhancing security measures.
Mayor 'Klarex' Uy emphasized the importance of safeguarding the community and expressed his condolences to the victims and their families affected by the violence in Marawi City, said Lumbatan.
Uy, Lumbatan said emphasized that the city must take proactive steps to prevent such tragic incidents from happening within its jurisdiction.
Upon receiving Mayor Uy's directive, the city police have been tasked with coordinating with church administrators to implement the 'One Entrance' policy effectively.
She added this implies that worshippers will be required to enter the churches through a designated entrance point, facilitating thorough checks for any potential threats or prohibited items.
The city government, in collaboration with the city police force, is actively working on providing the necessary resources to support the smooth implementation of the policy.
Additional security personnel may be deployed to assist in managing the entrance points and conducting necessary security screenings without causing inconvenience to the worshippers.
According to Mayor Uy, both the public and churchgoers need to understand the urgency and significance of this policy.
Every individual's cooperation will contribute to the overall safety and well-being of the community, Uy emphasized.
He said that the 'One Entrance' policy aims to guarantee a secure environment where citizens can practice their religious beliefs without fear or apprehension.
Mayor 'Klarex' Uy and the entire city administration are resolute in their commitment to maintaining public safety at all times, according to Lumbatan.
"The implementation of this policy reflects their determination to prevent any untoward incidents within the city's religious institutions," Lumbatan said.
Together, they aim to foster an atmosphere of unity, peace, and tranquility as the community moves forward from this tragic event, Lumbatan added.
She also stressed that Mayor 'Klarex' Uy's decision to enforce the 'One Entrance' policy across all city churches serves as a crucial step towards ensuring public safety and preventing any potential threats.
"Through this approach, the city administration intends to proactively protect its residents while maintaining the freedom to practice religion in a secure environment," said Lumbatan.
