LEGAZPI CITY—The island province of Masbate was placed on community quarantine in a bid to stop COVID-19 from spreading.
In an executive order issued on Monday (March 16), Gov. Antonio Kho said all sea, air, and land travel of individuals and cargo to any part of Masbate would be prohibited starting at 4 p.m. on Monday.
Exempted is transport of basic commodities.
An island quarantine was also imposed barring residents of the Masbate mainland from going to the islands of Ticao and Burias.
Residents of Ticao and Burias may still go the mainland to buy basic goods, medicines or get medical help but travel only through the ports of Aroroy and Masbate City.
Kho said the traveling residents should have certification from village officials stating the purpose of the travel.
Persons entering Masbate from areas with confirmed COVID-19 cases are required to undergo 14-day quarantine and be monitored by village and health workers.
Last March 13, Kho also ordered all classes suspended and cancelled all mass gatherings.