COVID-19 dominoes falling: Another Laguna town, city seal selves shut

LOS BAÑOS, Laguna–Like dominoes falling one after another, more towns in the province had shut their borders down to prevent the entry and exit of people and the entry of COVID-19.

In Pila, officials announced on Thursday through social media that all access to the town would be sealed.

Residents with work elsewhere or nonresidents with work in Pila have until noon of Friday (March 20) to return or leave. After that, they’ll be stuck where they are as the town closes its borders.

Health workers and those providing essential services are exempted, though.

“Pieces of paper, called quarantine passes, would be issued to each family to be used by only one member per family to leave the house and buy basic necessities.”

Some would have to do it on foot as public transportation had been suspended. Those with cars, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycles are allowed to go out to buy food and medicines but only one person per vehicle with a quarantine pass. Transport of basic goods is allowed.

A liquor ban is enforced, prohibiting the buying and selling of alcoholic beverages.

In San Pablo City, a lockdown is in place starting on March 19 when the city’s boundaries would be shut down from 7:30 p.m. to 5 a.m., according to an announcement via social media.

Only health workers and those with work permits would be allowed access and egress during the lockdown hours.

Biñan City and Rizal town will also issue quarantine passes, according to separate announcements made on social media Thursday.

Edited by TSB