Amid the rising number of cases relative to the 2019 Novel Coronavirus or nCov, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) calls on all the local government units (LGUs) to reinforce the efforts of the national government in addressing the said acute respiratory disease.
Through DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2020-018 or “Guides to Action Against Coronavirus”, the department enjoins all local officials, from provincial to barangay levels, to perform their respective functions on the promotion of health and safety within their areas of responsibility.
The memorandum reiterates the tasks of LGUs to intensify information education campaigns against 2019-nCov, and implement programs, projects, and services that will promote the health and well-being of every Filipino.
Although the Cordillera region remains nCov-free, DILG Cordillera Regional Director Marlo L. Iringan appeals to the LGUs and the general public to stay vigilant and always be cautious.
“We are continuously coordinating with the LGUs to make sure that they are sending the right messages to the public because misinformation can engender paranoia and it can create panic.” remarked Dir. Iringan.
He also commented on the cancellation of events as a result of this public health emergency of international concern, stressing that public safety is of paramount importance. “Cancelling event is not a sign of panic, it just shows that we are being proactive, putting safety of people first.” Dir. Iringan added.
Stipulated in the memorandum is the creation of Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTs) to help manage patients under investigation and their contacts. Part of the functions of BHERTs is to visit every home of every arriving person from a coronavirus-infected country.
Compulsory 14-day home confinement will be in effect for those persons arriving home from those coronavirus-affected countries. Specific roles of local officials are also specified in the guidelines.
Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH) reminds the public on the meaning of NCOV before sharing any information – Never share unverified news, Check sources before sharing, Only source out from the DOH official channels, and Verify news at www.doh.gov.ph/2019-nCoV. **
