Mass testing for workers in areas under GCQ not required — DTI

MANILA, Philippines — Employees returning to work in areas placed under a general community quarantine (GCQ) need not undergo testing for the coronavirus, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Wednesday.

DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez said only those suspected to have the disease and are showing symptoms will be required to undergo testing for COVID-19.

“Kung tatanungin nyo po kung required, hindi po siya required. ‘Yan po ay ililimit muna doon sa may karamdaman,” Lopez said in an online briefing, when asked whether employees are required to be tested for the virus.

(If you will asked if it is required, it is not. That will be limited to those who are ill.)

Several businesses, excluding those involved in leisure and entertainment, will be allowed to partially operate in areas under GCQ starting May 1.

Nonetheless, Lopez said the companies may establish their own guidelines when it comes to testing employees.

“Pwede po tayong bumalik sa pagtatrabaho at yung kumpanya, kanya-kanya pong pag instill kung gusto nilang irequire, magtest muna lahat bago pumasok, or ibibigay yung test kapag may karamdaman,” he said.

(We may return to work and the companies may instill whether they would require to test all employees prior to reporting for work or only test those who have symptoms.)

EDV