DILG orders creation of local task forces vs nCoV

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has ordered the creation of local task forces to combat the possible spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus (nCoV).

DILG spokesman Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya yesterday said all local government units (LGUs) nationwide have been directed to create their respective task forces as part of proactive steps to stop the spread of the virus.

The task force is mandated to implement protocols and guidelines set by the Department of Health (DOH) and extend cooperation to other government agencies.

It would be under the direct leadership of local chief executives such as the mayor and the governor and ensure that local health authorities are well-trained and have the necessary equipment and protective gadgets.

The task force will be in charge of the referral and transport of a suspect nCoV case in the city to a designated center or hospital in coordination with the DOH and the police.

The DILG also urged LGUs to conduct information campaigns for the public on the prevention, containment and control of the disease. 

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) gave assurance that it is ready to assist in any security needs of the country in relation to nCoV alert.

PNP chief Gen. Archie Gamboa said they would follow guidelines of the DOH and other government agencies. 

Gamboa said their chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosives unit is on standby to implement quarantine.

Measures vs nCoV

On the other hand, the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) have started implementing measures to avoid the spread of nCoV.

Narcisco Vingson Jr., officer-in-charge of Marina’s office of the administrator, said in an advisory that all ship owners, operators and other stakeholders should observe proper monitoring measures of the virus. 

“The aforementioned are enjoined to report suspected cases of nCoV, install necessary medical equipment and equip their personnel, including the officers and crew onboard ships,” Vingson said. 

He said they have also put in place strict health monitoring procedures such as body temperature tests for people entering the Marina building and provision of alcohol dispensers in all entrances and comfort rooms. 

The PCG, for its part, has advised its medical units in the 13 Coast Guard districts to be on high alert to block the possible spread of the virus. 

PPA general manager Jay Daniel Santiago has also directed all port managers to double the measures from general thermal scanning to individual checks if a passenger reaches a certain body temperature level. 

DOT: Minimize risk

Yesterday, the Department of Tourism (DOT) urged local and foreign tourists to take steps on their own to lessen the risk of being infected with nCoV.

“We strongly urge the public to stay informed and abide by the suggested guidelines issued by our health department to minimize risk and help stem the spread of the coronavirus,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said in a statement.

She also appealed to tourism establishments, local health offices and local law enforcers to “help provide proper guidance and assistance when needed.”

At Malacañang, the Presidential Security Group has recommended the limiting of visitors.

PSG commander Jose Eriel Niembra said his office has started coordination with the Palace’s Internal House Affairs Office to minimize public access to the Palace grounds to avoid the spread of the virus.

Niembra called on the IHAO to suspend visits to the Malacañang Museum and the Palace grounds. – With Robertzon Ramirez, Ghio Ong, Christina Mendez