7 barangays in Samboan under ‘hard lockdown’

CEBU, Philippines — Due to the increasing number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases, at least seven barangay in the town of Samboan in southern Cebu are under a "hard lockdown" for six days starting today until July 28.

This is a containment measure imposed by the local government unit to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Samboan Mayor Emerito Calderon, Jr. in his Executive Order No. 25 series of 2021 imposed stay at home order and restriction of travel in Barangays Suba, Poblacion, Bonbon, Tangbo, Dalahikan, Colase and Bato.

"Refrain from unnecessary travel until the lockdown is lifted; this includes people going to enter Samboan," read part of EO.

All public and private vehicles including the unauthorized movement of people are restricted also except for those who are in need of medical attention.

No mass gathering is allowed and all business establishments and tourist destinations are close except the pharmacies, money transfer and convenience stores.

The sari-sari stores, gas station and banks may be allowed on the fourth day from the start of the lockdown.

But for markets, tourist spots, restaurants and eateries, they have to be closed under the said period.

"All tourism accommodation including resorts and homestay may continue operate but shall advise their guest to remain within their premises," the EO furthered.

The LGUs will be distributing goods and medicines to the affected residents during the lockdown.

The LGU though has exemption for those authorized personnel who have vital role in continuing the services to its constituents.

Calderon stated that the municipality has a rising number of COVID-19 cases, symptomatic and asymptomatic, with COVID suspect deaths for the past two weeks.

According to the Provincial Health Office, Samboan has 59 active cases as of July 20, 2021

The town recorded a total of 178 cases of COVID-19 wherein 117 have already recovered.

No Lockdown

Meanwhile, Santander Mayor Marites Buscato denied that she is imposing a lockdown in her municipality.

In an interview with The Freeman, the mayor said that although there is a little increase in COVID-19 cases in her municipality, there are no truths on such rumors.

“Daghan istorya istorya nga mag lockdown daw mi diri, di na tinuod,” the mayor said.

But Buscato said the main building of the municipal hall including her office was closed starting July 21 up to 23 as one of their employees exhibited symptoms of COVID.

The said employee including four more employees are on quarantine while waiting for the results of their test. — Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon, GMR (FREEMAN)