2 Negros Occidental towns, Northern Samar province now under quarantine vs COVID-19

BACOLOD CITY –– Three more places in the Visayas have been placed under community quarantine to stop the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

The mayors of Sipalay City and Moises Padilla town, both in Negros Occidental, and the governor of Northern Samar, sealed off their borders to protect their respective constituents.

Sipalay City Mayor Maria Gina Lizares said the community quarantine in the city started on Tuesday and would last until April 17.

Residents of Sipalay City, who returned from areas with confirmed COVID-19 cases last month, would be considered persons under monitoring (PUM).

Curfews were also implemented in the city from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m., while inter-agency health checkpoints will be set up.

In Moises Padilla town, Mayor Ma. Ella Celestina Garcia Yulo said a municipal task force would record the names of all persons entering the town and their travel history. Those who refuse to cooperate will be denied entry.

In Northern Samar, Gov. Edwin Marino Ongchuan has issued an executive order putting the entire province under community quarantine from March 19 to April 15.

Within this period, people are prohibited from traveling to and from Northern Samar.

Drivers and helpers of cargo vessels bringing in goods, supplies, and equipment will be allowed entry to the province provided they show the necessary documents of their travel.

Ongchuan also suspended classes in all levels in Northern Samar for March 16 to April 14.

Starting March 19, curfews will be imposed in the province from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m.

Public gatherings in barangays and municipalities like assemblies, fiestas, and festivals, reunions, concerts, games, and sports matches, as well as religious events, are suspended or postponed.

Edited by LZB