With the emergence of the new variant of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the province of Ilocos Norte has increased its testing capacity and availability to accommodate the volume of authorized persons outside residence (APOR) and returning residents who need to be tested.

Dr. Josephine Ruedas, officer-in-charge of the Provincial Health Office, said in an interview Saturday at least three additional Covid-19 testing centers strategically located in various parts of the province are now fully operational.

Aside from the two antigen testing centers situated at the provincial border checkpoints in Badoc and Pagudpud towns, Covid-19 testing is also available at the district hospitals in Bangui and Dingras, including at the quarantine facilities of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

“We have also trained more nurses and medical technicians in various parts of the province to ensure they are capable of performing their tasks without any hesitation,” she added.

The local government units (LGUs) of Batac, Vintar, and Banna have also set up their own swabbing centers for their constituents to speed up the process of getting samples.

On top of the provincial government-run 11 quarantine facilities and two isolation facilities, each LGU in the province also has its own designated quarantine facilities.

With the opening of domestic tourism in the province, all accredited tourism establishments that are hosting visitors have also prepared their own isolation units in case of need.

Provincial buses bound for Manila and vice versa have resumed operation since Jan. 31, but no confirmed bookings yet so far.

To date, Ilocos Norte recorded 52 active cases with 702 recoveries and four deaths.

The public is reminded to adhere to minimum health and safety protocols whenever they are outside their residences. (PNA)