A community at Barangay Paso de Blas in Valenzuela City will be placed under a two-week lockdown starting Saturday (July 25) over the rising number of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) cases there.
In a letter issued Thursday (July 23), Valenzuela Mayor Rex Gatchalian announced that the community lockdown at Bagong Kaunlaran will be from 12 a.m. on July 25 until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday (Aug. 9).
Gatchalian said up to 50 percent of the community's residents tested positive for the disease in the past few rounds of swab testing in the area.
Residents will receive food and water rations from the city government on Saturday and every five days after until the lockdown is lifted. Hygiene kits will also be provided.
The Valenzuela mayor assured affected residents that their water and electricity connections will be maintained even if they are not able to pay their bills during the lockdown period, because the local government has discussed the situation with water provider Maynilad and electricity provider Meralco.
During this period, no one will be allowed to leave their houses. Entering and leaving the community is also prohibited.
Violators of Ordinance No. 670, series of 2020 or the Stay At Home Ordinance of Valenzuela City will be fined P5,000.
Meanwhile, those who violate Ordinance No. 724, series of 2020 or the COVID-19 Spread Prevention Ordinance of Valenzuela City will pay a penalty of P10,000.
Gatchalian said relatives of the affected residents who wish to send them food and other necessities can bring their packages to the "Padala Station" that will be established at the upper part of the community.
Those sending packages must only use disposable containers as the return of packages to the sender will not be allowed.
Those with medical concerns can contact the Medical Command Post via text message at mobile number 0908-409-9128.