By Minka Klaudia Tiangco
The Manila City jail has suspended visitations to inmates until further notice over threats of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19).
In a statement released on Monday evening, the Manila City jail management said visitors can instead check-in with their loved ones in jail through E-Dalaw, where they can do video calls through the Messenger app.
"We are asking for your understanding as we temporarily suspend visitations. This is to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the jail," the statement read in Filipino.
"Let us all work together to avoid COVID-19 so that we remain safe," it added.
Meanwhile, the Manila Police District (MPD) also adopted a set of safety measures in light of the virus scare.
According to the MPD Public Information Office, front liners are encouraged to wear face masks while front desk officers are advised to maintain a one-meter-distance between them and the complainant.
Soap, alcohol, and other disinfectants will always be kept nearby to sanitize the workplace.
Police officers should also avoid handshakes as a way to limit physical contact.
There are now at least 33 confirmed COVID-19 patients in the country. The Philippines is under a state of public health emergency as declared by President Duterte.
Read more: BuCor bars visitors due to COVID-19 threat, BJMP, BuCor suspend jail visits in NCR amid COVID-19 threat