Since October 2006 Ho Chi Minh City has granted certificates of religious operation to 91 Protestant groups including nearly 10,000 followers, the municipal Committee for Religion and Ethnic Minorities said on March 5.

Certificates were presented at public ceremonies, held at the headquarters of the people's committees of wards, villages and townships in the city, the committee said.

The granting of certificates was implemented in accordance with the Prime Minister's instruction regarding Protestant-related affairs.

VNA/VOVNews