At least 200 families under lockdown in 5 Cebu City villages

CEBU CITY — Relief goods were distributed to at least 200 families affected by the granular lockdown here since Saturday, July 25.

Mayor Edgardo Labella said all concerned individuals could not leave their homes, including those considered authorized persons outside residence, because the validity of the quarantine passes has been suspended.

“All individuals within areas under strict lockdown shall be absolutely prohibited from leaving their residences,” he said in an executive order.

Six areas in five barangays in Cebu City have been placed on granular lockdown for at least 14 days to slow down the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

These are Sitio Eyha in Barangay Guadalupe, Balaga Drive to Sitio Cekalco in Barangay Labangon, Tuada Compound in Barangay Tisa, Sitio San Isidro and Abellanosa Compound in Barangay Quiot, and C. Mina Extension in Barangay Mabolo.

Control points manned by police and barangay officials were established to ensure the strict implementation of the localized lockdown.

Residents will undergo swab testing to find out if they acquired the virus. Individuals who test positive will be transferred immediately to isolation or quarantine facilities.

Village officials reminded their constituents to strictly observe health protocols such as staying indoors, wearing face masks, and observing physical distancing.

Barangay Labangon Captain Vic Buendia said they have not encountered major problems since the start of the lockdown.

“What the residents need are food and other essentials. Both the city and barangay have started distributing these to them,” he said.

Buendia urged other residents, especially those not affected by the stringent measure, not to let their guard down.

“We always warn them that even though they’re not living in areas under granular lockdowns, they could be next if they don’t follow the rules,” he said.

Barangay Guadalupe Captain Michael Gacasan, for his part, said village officials oriented affected families of what would happen and urged them to cooperate.

“Otherwise, they could be the ones next to be placed under lockdown,” he said.

Cebu City remains the only locality in the country under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) until July 31.

As of July 26, Cebu City has 8,739 cases of COVID-19 with 4,914 recoveries and 465 deaths, according to the Department of Health.

At least 1,106 persons were admitted in hospitals, while 2,254 others stayed at different quarantine facilities in the city.