While other towns and cities in Ilocos Norte province have been seeing confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases daily, the town of Burgos, which hosts the country’s largest wind farm, seems to continue to ward off the virus, with no resident infected so far.
Located approximately 500 km. north of Manila, the coastal municipality is home to a united and well-disciplined citizenry.
“This is perhaps the main reason why we have maintained a Covid-19-free status since the pandemic started,” Mayor Crescente Garcia said in an interview Wednesday.
Garcia lauded his constituents, particularly the village front-liners composed of local officials, Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams, Barangay Health Workers, Barangay Nutrition Scholars, and other volunteers, for their understanding and solidarity in the strict implementation of minimum health and safety protocols recommended by health authorities.
In recognition of the village front-liners’ efforts and services in the face of the pandemic, each of them was given a PHP1,000 cash incentive, a Noche Buena package, a front-liner T-shirt, and personal protective equipment, courtesy of the Ilocos Norte government led by Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc.
The Yuletide assistance for village front-liners was first launched in Burgos, followed by other municipalities and cities here.
Meanwhile, Garcia has appealed to all locally stranded individuals and returning overseas Filipinos from Burgos to ensure they have a negative swab test result before going home to avoid infecting their loved ones.
He likewise reiterated to all concerned barangay officials, personnel of the Philippine National Police and Bureau of Fire Protection, and other employees to refrain from holding Christmas parties.
“Christmas celebrations shall only be held at home with family members and limit inviting other visitors, including the conduct of videoke and drinking sprees,” Garcia said.
Based on the latest case bulletin, Covid-19 infections in Ilocos Norte totaled 474, with more recoveries than active cases since its spike in late November. (PNA)
