The city government here offers free consultation and swab test for residents with symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) as part of the continued response to contain local transmission.

Retired Maj. Gen. Melquiades Feliciano, deputy chief implementer of Inter-Agency Task Force-Visayas, on Monday urged Bacolodnons to seek medical attention once they experience even the slightest of symptoms.

“’Pag ikaw ay may nararamdaman kahit konti lang, madali lang naman. Pumunta ka doon sa BRO (Bacolod Respiratory Outpatient) Center. Consultation is free,” he said.

He noted that some Bacolodnons are probably just scared or embarrassed to admit that they can be tested positive, but some may also just take for granted that they have symptoms.

Feliciano, who supervises the Bacolod City Emergency Operations Center (EOC), said that anyone who visits the BRO Center at the Bacolod Arts, Youth and Sports Center will be assessed by a physician on-duty.

“If your symptoms are Covid-related, automatically you will be (swabbed) for free,” he added.

The BRO Center is open from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, Mondays to Fridays.

Feliciano said that Bacolod residents can also call the EOC, which provides 24/7 over-the-phone consultation service.

“If you experience symptoms, you can call the EOC, they will refer you,” he added.

Those who undergo a swab test will be placed under mandatory quarantine while waiting for the results expected to be released in 24 to 48 hours, he said.

Feliciano, who has tested negative of Covid-19 several times, reiterated that discipline in following the minimum health protocols is still essential to prevent transmission.

“I learned from my personal experience that we must observe the protocols, which is the most important, to avoid contracting Covid-19,” he said.

As of Sunday night, Bacolod has 4,399 confirmed Covid-19 cases, including 3,423 recoveries, 862 active cases, and 114 deaths. (PNA)