Less quarantine violators observed in Lapu-Lapu

CEBU, Philippines —  Despite the decreasing number of quarantine violators in Lapu-Lapu City, the police admitted that the people’s awareness on the health protocols is still in the average level.

Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LLCPO) director Col. Carlito Baja said that from August 1 to 3 they have apprehended around 250 violators. The number was relatively low compared to the previous days into the general community quarantine in the city.

Baja said 93 of the violators were apprehended for going out without bringing their quarantine pass, there were also 77 caught for violating the social distancing protocol, 46 were without face mask, and 34 for curfew. Social distancing violators were mostly motorcycle riders.

 Violators, however, were immediately released after paying the required penalties under the city ordinance. He noted that the number of people violating the quarantine protocols is decreasing.

“Dili na gyud daghan kaysa atong miagi kay ang amo lang gibuhat ini, to remind sa public na the same parin ang protocol, the same parin ang minimum safety protocols,” Baja said.

(It’s not that much compared to the previous because what we did is to remind the public that the same protocols apply)

But, he said a lot of people are still not aware of the health protocols to follow under a corresponding quarantine status. According to Baja, he believes that at least 50 percent of the residents, especially those in the interior areas, are not aware of the proper protocols to follow.

“Ang among pagtuo ang quarantine pass para ra sa mga muadto og merkado, mamalengke ug sa mga grocery,” Baja said, quoting one of the violators.

(We thought that the quarantine pass is only for those who go to the market and does the grocery)

To increase the people’s awareness, Baja said they have intensified their information drive by doing a “rekorida” in each barangay, especially in the interior parts. Baja said he directed all the station commanders to ensure that the people are aware of the health protocols to follow. — FPL (FREEMAN)