Negros Occidental’s provincial government has prohibited the entry of children 12 years and below to the Provincial Capitol Lagoon and Park here as a preventive health and safety measure against the continuing threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

In Executive Order (EO) 21-57-A issued on Thursday, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson amended the guidelines in the operations of the facility located across the Provincial Capitol Building.

“There is a need to amend (the guidelines) in the light of the recent spike of Covid-19 cases in the country and in order to prevent the possible increase of cases in the province,” Lacson said.

He noted that because children below 13 years old are still unvaccinated and more prone to Covid-19, especially the Omicron variant, the area will only be open to persons aged 13 and above.

The Provincial Capitol Lagoon and Park’s daily operating hours have also been shortened to 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., with only up to 50 percent venue capacity.

Minimum public health standards prescribed by the Department of Health will be strictly enforced at all times.

Before entry, visitors must undergo a temperature check, observe physical distancing, and wear face masks.

On December 13, Lacson signed EO 12-57, opening the Capitol Lagoon and Park to persons of all ages for any purpose, including leisure, for up to 70 percent venue capacity, from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The area is a popular attraction for exercise, relaxation, and leisure among the Negrenses. (PNA)