CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Department of Health (DOH) reminded anew residents of Central Luzon to observe the minimum health standards as provinces gradually loosen restrictions following a two-month Enhanced Community Quarantine.
Resolution No.37 of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases placed the provinces of Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Zambales and city of Angeles under a Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ) while the provinces of Aurora and Tarlac and city of Olongapo under a General Community Quarantine (GCQ) from May 16 to 31.
“Minimum health standards for both MECQ and GCQ include safety protocols such as the use of facemask when going out, frequent sanitation and handwashing, avoid touching surfaces and face, and stricter measures for higher-risk occupations, industries and spaces,” DOH Regional Director Cesar Cassion said.
Moreover, safe distancing is being at least one meter apart, reconfiguring work spaces, putting markers in public spaces, and not allowing employees to report to work if with symptoms of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
And lastly, establishment of return-to-work guidelines for private companies.
“With this pandemic, let us put in mind that we will never be going back to normal. Instead, we must gradually accept and embrace the new normal by being pro-active in health and push for a healthier living geared towards a better health outcome and high quality of life,” Cassion emphasized.
“Our battle with COVID-19 is not yet done. That is why the DOH strongly encourages everyone to continue doing his/her civic duty to save fellow Filipinos from this unseen enemy. The government cannot do it alone. We need the cooperation of everyone for us to win this fight. Let us not waste the sacrifices and efforts we have made since this pandemic started. Instead, let us contribute in flattening the curve by constantly practicing minimum health standards. Together, we can beat COVID-19,” he furthered.
As of March 17, the region has a total of 486 confirmed COVID-19 cases.