Vietnam mourns deceased victims of COVID-19
(VOVWORLD) - Ceremonies were held on Friday across Vietnam to remember those who lost their lives to COVID-19. The event in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City began at 8 pm and was broadcast live on VTV1. It was hosted by the Vietnam Fatherland Front and Ho Chi Minh City’s People Committee.
 The memorial ceremony for victims of COVID-19 takes place at Reunification Hall, Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
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After two years, the COVID-19 pandemic has taken a heavy toll on Vietnam, which has reported over 1 million cases. 23,000 of them have died. Funerals for many were skipped because of safety precautions. Tens of thousands of families have lost their loved ones. Thousands of children have been orphaned.
Vice Chairman of Vietnam Fatherland Front Phung Khanh Tai said, “The grand ceremony manifests the way the Party, State, and Vietnam Fatherland Front cares. They share with the suffering and spread love among our community. Those who are alive must live for the part of those who have forever gone away. Their losses alert us to respond in unity and caution.”
 The memorial ceremony at Phap Hoa pagoda, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
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In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City locals lit candles, burned incense, and released floating lanterns. Religious facilities tolled their bells, boats on Ho Chi Minh City’s rivers and canals blew their horns, and people were encouraged to pray for the victims at public places and residential areas.