Mayor Jerry P. Treñas is seriously considering sealing off Iloilo City to prevent the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) even though the metropolis has no confirmed case yet of the fatal disease.
In his official Facebook page, Treñas said that the lockdown is needed “so that we can immediately stop the chain of transmission of the virus.”
“With the increasing number of PUIs we have in the city we need to act fast. When it comes to emergency situations like this, speed comes perfection. And we need to move fast so we can stop the virus, and be able to save lives,” Treñas added.
The city’s top executive explained that during a lockdown, essential establishments will be allowed to open so that Ilonggos can still buy their daily needs.
“I met with the major supermarkets, retailers and convenience stores and they have assured me that there is sufficient supply of basic goods in the market. And that they will stay open even when there will be a lockdown. With their assurance, there is no need to panic,” he said.
Treñas added that he is already preparing mobile kitchens in the barangay daycare centers.
He urged all Ilonggos in the city to cooperate once the lockdown will be approved and implemented.
“We will win against this virus. We must be vigilant so that we will avoid the spread in our community. We must act now if not many will be infected,” Treñas said.
In a COVID-19 Case Bulletin issued 4 P.M. of Wednesday, Department of Health reported 15 new confirmed cases, bringing the total number of cases in the country at 202. The DOH also reported three additional deaths and three additional patients who have recovered from the disease.
No confirmed case yet in Iloilo and the whole Western Visayas.
Kahanga hanga po ang action na ginawa po ninyo gov.trenas