The province of Ilocos Norte has intensified its guidelines to all entering cargo vehicles and Authorized Person Outside Residence (APOR) to further contain the spread of the coronavirus virus disease (Covid-19) in this part of Luzon.

Based on the updated general guidelines issued by Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc on Friday, all cargo vehicles entering the province are now required to register with the Metro Ilocos Norte Council and sign a memorandum of understanding with the provincial government of Ilocos Norte.

When operating cargo trucks and delivery vehicles, a maximum of five persons is allowed and they must all present reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) taken within 72 hours or three days before entry but in case there was none, they must undergo a rapid test at the border.

APOR should also register and show proof of work and identification at the border.

An APOR is also not allowed to bring any travel companions and those APOR who are staying in the province should remain at home when possible.

To date, Ilocos Norte has five active cases of Covid-19 after it recorded its 10th case on Thursday. Most of the cases are returning residents staying in quarantine facilities but the number of infected APOR and cargo vehicle personnel in the region are increasing in numbers too.

“We hope that the challenges of Covid-19 will continue to bring out the best in our community. May we remain side by side in this difficult chapter in our history,” the governor said. (PNA)