By Liezle Basa Inigo
CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela – This city has prescribed its own implementing guidelines and protocols for the strict monitoring of workers going in and coming out of the city, including those passing through its territory, in its effort to maintain its status as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) free city.
City of Ilagan Mayor Josemarie L. Diaz
(MYCITYPIO / MANILA BULLETIN)
City Mayor Josemarie L. Diaz said that while the city adheres to the guidelines and protocols set by the national government against the spread of COVID-19, he stressed that “there is a need to provide clear health protocols covering movements of people to and from the city”.
Diaz said the city government cannot be complacent that it was still COVID-19 free at present, and that precautionary measures must be taken to protect public health and interest.
In line with this, Diaz issued an order prescribing a set of implementing guidelines which would require Ilagan workers to obtain Health Declaration Certificates (HDCs) from their Barangay Health Workers (BHERTS), a travel pass from their Punong Barangays, and an employment certificate from their employer before they will be allowed to pass checkpoints in the city.
Those working outside the city will not only observe the same process, but also secure travel passes from the office of the City mayor, while the BHERTS-issued certificates issued them will only be good for one day.
Workers coming from outside Ilagan City must have their HDCs, certificates of employment and travel passes to be presented to the designated checkpoints.
Those coming from areas under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) or General Community Quarantine (GCQ) shall undergo the mandatory 14-day quarantine, and to be subjected to Rapid Antibody-based Diagnostic Test (RADT) pursuant to Executive Order No. 28 series of 2020.
Furthermore, only relatives and family members of a possible COVID-19 patient will be allowed in the city’s quarantine facilities for purposes of bringing belongings and other basic necessities needed by the patient. However, no physical contact or interactions will be allowed.