PSG: ‘No touch’ policy on Duterte amid coronavirus scare

MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Security Group (PSG) will implement a “no-touch” policy on President Rodrigo Duterte to ensure his safety amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in the Philippines.

PSG commander Col. Jesus Durante told INQUIRER in a text message Monday that the “no-touch” policy was among the preventive measures that the PSG tackled during an emergency meeting Sunday.

“We tackled about strictly implementing preventive measures against the virus to ensure the safety of PRRD and the first family. Specifically, PSG will implement the no-touch policy to the President,” Durante said.

Personalities who are expected to get near the President during meetings and events “will be thoroughly screened and tested” for any illness related to COVID-19, the PSG chief said.

“These include PSG personnel, politicians, and dignitaries,” he added.

Large crowd gatherings with the President serving as the guest of honor and speaker will be assessed and “could be canceled not only for his safety but also for the attendees.”

“Likewise, all established health protocols and preventive measures are continuously in effect to all PSG personnel and the whole Malacañang Complex,” Durante said.

“The PSG, together with members of OP EMC (Events Management Cluster), are observing these preventive measures, based on the guidelines set forth by DOH.”

Malacañang earlier said there will be no changes in the schedule of the President amid the COVID-19 scare.

The Philippines so far reported 10 confirmed cases of COVID-19, of which, seven are confined, two have recovered, while one died. The fatality was a Chinese tourist.

GSG