BACOLOD City – Negros Occidental has so far recorded 133 “persons under monitoring” (PUMs) for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), with 69 already having completed their quarantine as of March 12.
This was announced yesterday by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson during the inter-agency task force meeting at the provincial capitol.
The provincial government has stepped up its preparations and introduced protocols against COVID-19.
Lacson said, “As I speak right now we are still negative for COVID-19. Unfortunately our neighboring province (Negros Oriental) has already reported one.”
Lacson revealed he would release an executive order declaring all individuals originating from Metro Manila as PUMs.
These persons would then be asked to undergo a 14-day quarantine.
There would also be a suspension of all major public events but the discretion is with the local chief executives, and protocols will be disseminated by the Provincial Health Office.
The provincial government is also trying to identify which place would be best made as a holding or quarantine area.
The Department of Education in Negros Occidental also agreed to end the school year by March 20, and they will also abide by the decision of local chief executives.
“We have to be responsible Negrenses,” Lacson said. “If not, we or our relatives will get sick. That is what we are trying to avoid.”
Earlier, Bacolod City’s Mayor Evelio Leonardia issued four executive orders declaring an early end to the school year in the city, as well as protocols on social distancing.
The mayor also suspended commencement exercises at all levels until further notice.
Bacolod city has three persons under investigation and 19 PUMs./PN
God bless everyone..and take care..we have to cooperate to our goverment for our own safety..COVID-19 will end soon..in God’s well..