TACLOBAN CITY –– Samar Governor Reynolds Michael Tan has placed the entire province under enhanced community quarantine to stop the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The measure took effect on April 1 and will end on April 15.
The enhanced quarantine came after a 63-year-old man from Calbayog City tested positive for COVID-19.
The man is Samar’s first confirmed COVID-19 case and Eastern Visayas’ second.
The first case involved a 51-year old woman from the nearby province of Northern Samar, who has recovered from the illness.
Under Executive Order 20 issued by Tan on Monday, March 30, strict quarantine for all households would be enforced, especially for minors, senior citizens, pregnant women, and those who have a high risk of infection.
These people, Tan said, have to stay inside their homes until the end of the quarantine period.
Residents of the province but working outside Samar will be allowed to go out if they could show proofs like employment identification card or work certification, and a quarantine pass.
Those coming from outside Samar but are doing business in the province would not be allowed to enter, except for those working in establishments or facilities like hospitals or groceries.
Public utilities from outside the province would also be barred from the province, while the quarantine is in effect.
Public utility vehicles operating within the province would be allowed, provided they observe social distancing by carrying only half of its regular number of passengers.
Farming and fishing are allowed so that there would be a sufficient supply of food.