Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary and spokesman Jonathan Malaya appealed to local government units (LGUs) on Friday to accept the returning locally stranded individuals (LSIs) to their respective localities.

(PCOO / MANILA BULLETIN)
The call was made after several LGUs were apprehensive in taking in the LSIs claiming that coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases have soared since their arrival.
Malaya explained that the LSIs have the right to return to their hometowns and be with their families after having been away for several months.
He noted that the DILG will get in touch with the concerned LGUs regarding the arrival of the LSIs to make them ready to accept them.
To allay their fears, Malaya said the LSIs have medical certificates and have undergone RAPID testing for COVID-19.
Malaya stressed that local health protocols may be imposed by the LGUs on the arriving LSIs.
The LSIs will be escorted by the PNP-Highway Patrol Group to ensure their safe travel on board the buses lent by Narvacan, Ilocos Sur Mayor Luis “Chavit’’ Singson.
Malaya also noted that almost 4,000 LSIs will be transported to various parts of the country on July 4 and 5.
He said three ships, one Philiipine National Railways train, and one C-130 plane will bring home the LSIs to Caraga, Cebu province, and other regions.
The LSIs were temporarily housed at the Villamor Air Base and Philippine Army Gym.
Latest data showed 177 LSIs are now at the Villamor Airbase Elementary School while 754 are inside the PA Gym.
The LSIs who plan to go back to provinces that are implementing a moratorium such as Regions 6 and 8, Cebu Island, Mactan, and CARAGA will not be included.
Swab tests will not be required for LSIs prior to travel since the IATF has not yet approved the inclusion of LSIs in the mandatory swabbing.
DILG Secretary Eduardo Aῆo said that testing will be conducted by the LGUs once approved by the IATF.