MANILA, Philippines — The strict safety protocols being enforced in Malacañang will be maintained in a bid to further protect the seat of the government from the threat of COVID-19, even as lockdown measures have been eased nationwide.
In a statement Friday, Presidential Security Group (PSG) chief Col. Jesus Durante said all the screening procedures such as mandatory rapid antibody testing, disinfection of engagement areas, and the “no invitation, no entry” policy will remain in effect for all Palace visitors and guests.
“Events with possible attendance of President Duterte shall only be restricted to small group private meetings. Engagements that require large crowd gatherings will be discouraged,” Durante said.
“PSG will never let its guard down. It shall remain on high-alert status until the environment is safe for the President,” he added.
The PSG earlier formed a task force to implement the stricter security protocols to safeguard Duterte’s health.
The task force organizes medical teams and establishes quarantine sites within Malacañang Complex, regularly conducts information drive for all PSG personnel and their dependents, regularly conducts sanitation and disinfection of PSG compound and Malacañang Complex to include neighboring buildings and facilities.