BY CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
“Let us not let our guard down and be complacent just because there was a downtrend of COVID-19 infections in Bacolod City for close to two months.”
This was the reminder issued by Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia last week as he continued to appeal for the cooperation and understanding of Bacolodnons in strictly observing minimum health protocols for their protection.
Leonardia said that amidst the surging number of cases nationwide, it has been close to two months that the city had seen a slowdown in the rate of COVID-19 infections as its Emergency Operations Center and its medical team stepped up its vaccination campaign.
But on September 9, after a considerable period with only two-digit figures, Bacolod registered a three-digit record at 130 of fresh cases, he said.
“My dear constituents, as I have earlier pointed out, we are in for a roller-coaster ride as long as this pandemic continues and, therefore, vaccinated or unvaccinated, we should remain strictly compliant with the minimum health protocols– wearing of face mask all the time, and face shield when necessary; avoiding crowded places and staying long in closed venues; observing physical distancing and disinfecting, among others,” Leonardia said.
Relative to this, the Bacolod City Police Office had been directed to assist in tightening the implementation of minimum health protocols, monitor compliance of the curfew hours as stipulated in our latest Executive Order defining the rules under the GCQ-HR, including the operations of business establishments as well as compliance to the liquor ban, he said.
Leonardia said they will continue to step up the city’s vaccination drive and adopt more interventions where they are applicable, to get more residents inoculated.
“But the recent recorded cases in Bacolod City – although some of our neighbors in the region have higher new infection rates than ours – should serve as an eye-opener. Again, we cannot be complacent,” he said.
Leonardia said the people’s cooperation, understanding, and continued patience are highly appreciated in these most trying times, especially that Bacolod is still under GCQ with heightened restrictions status.*
