By Zaldy Comanda  BAGUIO CITY – A mining company is taking measures to ensure that its community members, particularly the students, are made aware of ways to prevent being infected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). (MANILA BULLETIN) Lepanto Consolidated Mining Company’s medical team recently initiated a massive information-education campaign for over 100 students, teachers and parents in Barangays Sapid and Paco in Mankayan, Benguet, to raise public awareness on COVID-19. History of the disease, its manner of transmission, prevention tips like proper handwashing and cough etiquette, treatment and updates from the Department of Health (DOH)were among the topics discussed during the forum. Lepanto Hospital Medical Director Dr. Zerubabel Patena emphasized that community participation was vital in preventing the virus from spreading, and not to create panic and hysteria among the community members. “As medical practitioners, it is our responsibility to inform the public. Our aim here is for the students, faculty members and parents to be reminded of how we can prevent the transmission of the disease with basic precautionary measures like simple hygiene and eating healthy”, Patena said. Natalie Lagan, principal of Marivic Elementary School in Barangay Sapid, was grateful to the company for reaching out to schools to equip not only their students, but also the teachers and parents with the proper knowledge to keep COVID-19 at bay. “We feel that the company really cares for the health and wellness of our students with activities like this. Makakatulong ito sa mga bata at lalo na sa aming mga teachers para malabanan itong COVID-19.” she added.