Ilocos provinces tighten restrictions as COVID-19 cases spike

DAGUPAN CITY, Philippines — Police are implementing stricter quarantine protocols in Ilocos region amid an increase in COVID-19 cases.

Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Peralta, Region 1 police director, said visitors in Pangasinan must present proof of essential travel aside from identification cards at border checkpoints.

In La Union, which was placed under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) from April 10 to 23, travelers, including those only passing through, are required to present a negative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test result, QR pass and ID.

Travel for leisure is not allowed.

Ilocos Sur remains under modified general community quarantine, but the towns of Cabugao, Bantay,  Sinait, Cervantes, Narvacan, Santa, Sta.Maria, San Esteban, Sta. Lucia, Suyo and Tagudin and cities of Candon and Vigan are under MECQ.

Residents of Ilocos Norte traveling to other provinces must present a negative RT-PCR test result four days upon their return. A negative swab test is also required for those visiting the province.

Ifugao mayor gets COVID-19

Meanwhile, in Ifugao, the mayor of Lagawe town and his wife tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday.

Mayor Martin Habawel Jr. said his wife Aimee experienced symptoms on April 13 while he remains asymptomatic.

The couple called on those who were exposed to them to undergo isolation and consult the municipal health office for contact tracing.

Lagawe logged 67 active cases on Friday.