ANGELES CITY – Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. on Jan. 23, 2025 has issued a directive for the disinfection of all public and private elementary schools, as a proactive measure to prevent the spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD).
“The local government assures the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of every Angeleño, particularly the youth,” Mayor Lazatin said.
The said disinfection efforts is also upon on the recommendation of City Health Officer Dr. Verona Guevarra, following the logistics and preparation meeting presided over by Chief Adviser IC Calaguas with Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, General Services Officer Evangeline Malonzo, Angeles City Tourism Auxiliary and Angeles City Barangay Outreach Head Mike Lising, and Dr. Guevarra.
“We are personally overseeing the logistical and operational aspects of the disinfection campaign, ensuring that all schools are thoroughly sanitized, gaya po ng nais ni Mayor Lazatin,” Calaguas reiterated.
In the issued memorandum, Mayor Lazatin formed a team to carry out the disinfection beginning on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Among the formed team to lead the disinfection activities are ACTA, ACBO, Mayor’s Office, City Environment and Natural Resources Office headed by Jennifer Castro, and Environmental Management System led by Francis Pangilinan.
This initiative forms part of the city’s intensified response to curb the spread of HFMD, following suspected cases reported in local schools.
Dr. Guevarra meanwhile explained that the city government will be utilizing Anolyte, an advanced disinfectant solution that is safe, effective, and eco-friendly to ensure thorough sanitation while minimizing health risks for our students.
To sustain the efforts, Dr. Guevarra is also encouraging parents to equip their children with personal alcohol for regular disinfection, especially after the sanitation drive.
To recall, Mayor Lazatin issued a statement on the five reported suspected cases of HFMD on Jan. 22, 2023, ensuring the city government’s full and close monitoring to the situation, through the CHO.