Strict border controls in Eastern Visayas help prevent spread of COVID-19

Strict border controls implemented in the provinces of Antique and Capiz in Western Visayas, and in Samar and Ormoc City in Eastern Visayas have contributed to the lower COVID-19 cases in these areas.

Ormoc City Mayor Richard Gomez, who has been lauded for the measures he implemented in the city, said they closed their borders as early as March 13 and suspended sea travel between Cebu and the city on March 17.

Mayor Gomez also created a taskforce to address the COVID-19 pandemic as well as established quarantine control areas. Ormoc City remains COVID-free since the start of the pandemic, Gomez said.

In Samar, Rep. Sharee Ann Tan of the 2nd district reported that the province acquired medical equipment, such as personal protective equipment for frontliners.

Samar implemented 21-day quarantine for those coming from other provinces since they have a COVID-19 positive case that tested positive on the 38th day, Tan explained.

“We felt it would be safe for us if it’s 21 days,” she added. “So far, we are coordinating with the numbers of those who will return under the Balik Probinsya.”

The province also limits access to the local government units as far as donated goods are concerned, Rep. Tan said.

She added that the provincial staff handles the distribution of donation and they will have to undergo quarantine when they return to Catbalogan. (OPAV)