Manila Archbishop Jose Advincula has ordered a comprehensive safety inspection of all churches, schools, and facilities under the Archdiocese of Manila to ensure public safety.
The directive was issued through a Memorandum Circular signed by Vicar General and Moderator Curiae Msgr. Reginald Malicdem. The circular instructs administrators to focus heavily on structural stability and hazard prevention.
“Particular attention should be given to the safety and stability of sacred images and statues, hanging fixtures, electrical installations, building structures, and fire safety provisions,” the memorandum stated.
The Archdiocese outlined key areas for inspection across all facilities:
- Sacred Images and Statues: Ensure standing and hanging statues, images, and crucifixes are securely anchored and stable.
- Hanging Fixtures and Electrical Installations: Check chandeliers, lighting, ceiling fans, speakers, and suspended equipment for loose fittings, frayed wiring, or wear.
- Buildings and Supporting Structures: Inspect ceilings, walls, brackets, pedestals, and anchors for structural cracks, corrosion, or instability.
- Fire and Electrical Safety: Verify that electrical circuits are not overloaded and keep candles, decorations, and flammable materials away from heat sources.
Authorities stressed that any area or structure identified as unsafe must be restricted from public access immediately. Assessments and documentation of findings must be submitted to the RCAM-Engineering Department for evaluation, while repairs must be handled strictly by qualified professionals.
Concluding the circular, Malicdem called for collective vigilance across the archdiocese:
“May we continue to work together in ensuring that our churches, schools, and other institutions remain safe places of worship, service, learning, and community life.”
“Let us make the safety and well-being of everyone a shared responsibility.”