"Hindi namin tatantanan 'yan (We will not leave this alone)."
This was Malacañang's assurance to the public, saying it will prosecute anyone who was involved in the case a returning Filipina who was able to cut quarantine through her supposed connections and went to a party in Poblacion, Makati last week.
Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles made the statement after Interior Secretary Eduardo Año confirmed in a Teleradyo interview on December 30 that a traveler from the United States (US), was able to cut her quarantine despite testing positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19).
In his press briefing on Friday, December 31, Nograles assured the public that the issue was already being investigated by the Philippine National Police (PNP), the (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group), the Department of Tourism (DOT), and the Department of Health (DOH).
According to the acting Palace spokesman, the government will not hesitate to prosecute those who violate the law.
"Talagang ipo-prosecute namin 'yan. Hindi natin tatantanan 'yan (We will really prosecute them. We will not leave this alone). I'm sorry, this is a public health emergency, we cannot just let this go," he said.
"Importante talaga (It's important) that everybody follows the law and the laws are there for everyone's protection and safety. Let's not think that we can get away with it dahil hindi talaga. Hindi 'yan mangyayari (because that will never happen)," he added.
According to Nograles, the concerned traveler, now tagged informally as 'Poblacion Girl', and those others involved could be charged for violating the Notifiable Diseases Act. The hotel where she initially underwent quarantine can also be held liable but said these were all up to the Department of Justice (DOJ).
"May pinirmahan naman 'yang mga 'yan, alam naman po nila kung ano yung mga sanctions they could face (They signed an agreement and they know the sanctions they could face)," he said.
"We leave it up to the DOJ to file the necessary charges after investigation is done by the PNP after the investigation is done by our CIDG," he added.
The Palace official reminded the public of their responsibilities during the pandemic and warned them to not even try violating laws.
"It is up to you, it is really your responsibility to ensure that there will be no violations. If violations happen, then we will prosecute. It's that simple. Let it not come to that," Nograles said.
"Make no mistake: Anybody who violates, the law will catch up to you. So don't try it. 'Wag niyong subukan, please," he added.