JALAJALA, Rizal - Although this town known as “Paraiso ng Rizal” has the lowest coronavirus cases among the 14 localities in Rizal province with only three confirmed cases, the local government here is implementing barangay border restrictions in all its villages as part of restrictive measures to stop the spread of the dreaded virus in this town.
The office of Mayor Elmer Pillas, in its Facebook page announced that village officials have agreed to implement a “One Entrance, One Exit” policy in all its nine barangays.
Each village is encouraged to designate a street or two that will serve as exit or entrance points to and from the village. Each exit and entrance will be guarded by village peacekeepers round-the- clock to prevent non-residents who might be virus carriers from entering the community.
Only authorized persons outside residence (APOR) will be allowed to enter and leave the village.
Non-residents are required to present a medical certificate showing their health status before they could enter the village.
If the non-resident has no medical certificate, he or she should go to the barangay chairman, who will decide whether to allow or deny entry.
Peace and order issues related to the implementation of the One Entry, One Exit policy have been tasked to the Philippine National Police in the town.
Health related concerns should be addressed to the Municipal Health Office according to the guidelines posted on the LGU’s Facebook page.
The municipal government has reminded residents to always wear face mask and to remind fellow residents to wear the same.
Residents caught without face masks will be fined the amount of P2,000 or be detained for 10 days or both as per municipal ordinance.
Another strategy dubbed Kapitbahay Ko, Bantay Ko sa COVID that aims to encourage residents to report to authorities should they suspect neighbors to be ill or show symptoms of COVID-19, is in the review stage in the Sangguniang Bayan.
As of July 25, the town has recorded one active case of the three confirmed cases. There has been no new case so far, with one recovery and one death, according data from the Rizal Provincial Government.