Palace: Gov’t to prioritize Cebu City in 2nd round of subsidy distribution

MANILA, Philippines — Residents of Cebu City will be prioritized in the distribution of the second round of the social amelioration program (SAP), Malacañang said Tuesday.

“Syempre po dahil naka-lockdown ang Cebu City, prayoridad po ang Cebu City para dito sa second tranche ng SAP distribution,” Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in an online breifing.

(Since Cebu City is under lockdown, it is a priority in the second tranche of SAP distribution.)

Restrictions were tightened in Cebu City as it was placed under enhanced community quarantine from June 16 to 30 due to a high rate of infection recorded.

From June 1 to 15, the city was under general community quarantine.

Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu, who was appointed to oversee the COVID-19 efforts in Cebu City, said the implementation of an enhanced community quarantine should continue in the city.

Citing the National Task Force (NTF) against COVID-19, Roque said among major issues in Cebu City include “harmonizing” local governments, healthcare workers, business and religious sectors.

Roque also noted the need to establish an organization similar to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority in Cebu City.

Further, Roque said the NTF is looking at establishing a non-COVID dialysis center for 1,500 patients.

“Magbibigay solusyon din po sa kakulangan ng mga doktor, mga nurse at mga nursing staff,” he added.

(A solution will also be given to the lack of doctors, nurses and nursing staff.)

As of Monday, the city has recorded 5,141 COVID-19 cases with its recoveries nearing 3,000 and its death toll at 169.

JPV