Task force lifts lockdown on sitios in 5 baragays

CEBU, Philippines —  The Regional Inter-Agency Task Force has lifted the lockdown on sitios in five barangays that were hit hardest in the early stages of COVID-19 infection in Cebu City.

The regional IATF lifted the lockdown through Resolution No. 11, series of 2020.

The areas now getting a breather are sitio Zapatera in Barangay Luz, sitio Gonzalo in Barangay Tejero, sitio Alaska in Barangay Mambaling, sitio Callejon in Barangay Labangon, and Barangay Bacayan.

Of these areas, the longest that has been placed on hard lockdown is sitio Zapatera, which has been on lockdown since April. 

While Mayor Edgardo Labella ordered the lockdown in Luz lifted in May, coordination with other agencies involved did not go well, which prolonged the lockdown further.

Yesterday, Luz Captain Ronilo Sab-a and the other barangays concerned received the notice to lift the lockdown from RIATF Task Force-7 and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Still, residents of the five areas are advised to observe quarantine guidelines strictly.

Earlier, in anticipation of the lifting of the lockdown, Mambaling Captain Gines Abellana announced the barangay has reserved quarantine passes for residents in sitio Alaska. Since not all households will be given, the passes will have to be shared.

Cebu City is under enhanced community quarantine until July 15, 2020.  JMO (FREEMAN)