By Restituto Cayubit
TACLOBAN CITY – The province of Leyte has been placed under general community quarantine to prevent the entry and spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the province.
Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico L. Petilla, told reporters that he has signed an executive order placing the entire province of Leyte under general community quarantine and enhancing the implementation of mandatory precautionary measures against COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019).
Petilla said that the general community quarantine period shall start at 12 midnight of March 18 and will last until April 17
He added the quarantine period may be shortened or extended depending upon the situation.
The governor explained that the purpose for the EO was to prevent the entry and spread, and to protect the people of Leyte from the threats brought about by COVID-19.
“What is important now is that the entire province of Leyte is still COVID-19 free. We do not have any person confirmed infected with the virus,” he said.
He said that, under the EO, check points and border controls shall be established at the designated areas to be determined by the police.
He added that there will be suspension and postponement of public gatherings and the entry of all persons coming o the province of Leyte either by land, sea or air shall be prohibited except for instances as provided for in the EO.
He further added that curfew hours will also be determined and implemented by the local chief executives under their respective jurisdictions.
Police Colonel Rodelio Samson, provincial director, Leyte Police Provincial Office told reporters that he ordered his men in the field to arrest those who will violate the EO.