For DILG Secretary Año, strength in unity would defeat Delta variant
By Chito Chavez
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año is calling for unity in the fight against the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) Delta variant, saying the strength that comes from a unity and cooperation of the people is the best way to defeat the deadly virus.
In a Zoom meeting with the business sector and other Cabinet members, Año encouraged the private sector to chip in their ideas and suggestions on how the lockdowns can be carried out while minimizing the blow on the people and the economy.
He reiterated that the business and private groups should not hesitate in offering their insights and suggestions stressing that the fight against COVID-19 is a shared responsibility between the government and the people.
The private sector should join this endeavor in preventing a greater evil from assailing our nation in this time of surmountable challenges. A synergy must be established between the government and the businesses," said Año.
As the Christmas Season nears, Año maintained the valuable support the private sector can provide in bringing down the number of COVID-19 cases in the country especially when more people are expected to be out on the streets for their Holiday shopping rush.
He also bared that lockdowns may endanger the businesses and the economy citing the government has no choice but to implement measures like curfew hours, travel restrictions and strict border controls as they are necessary to “reverse the infection tide.’’
The DILG warned the public to brace for stricter enforcement of quarantine restrictions that are harmonized with national and local efforts and actions against the Delta variant/pandemic.
However, Año noted that public transport will be retained in the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) areas with imposed passenger control and the Department of Transportation (DoTr) directive to offer free rides to vaccinated people. (Chito A. Chavez)