The regional inter-agency task force on emerging infectious disease (RIATF) and the regional task force on Covid-19 (RTF) in a joint resolution approved the request of Leyte province to ban the return of locally stranded individuals (LSIs) for two weeks.
The joint resolution was approved on Nov. 25 but was only released to the public on Sunday.
In the joint resolution, the two bodies said as of Dec. 3, 2020, the data from the Department of Health (DOH) showed that out of the 2,614 confirmed Covid-19 cases in Leyte, 1,158 or 44 percent are returning residents, including LSIs.
“In consideration of the LGUs (local government units) Covid-19 situation, including its absorptive capacity so as to ensure that the quarantine facilities are not overwhelmed and that each LSI is given proper accommodation and attention,” the resolution stated.
The RTF is tasked with the operations and implementation of Covid-19 related activities, while the RIATF is the policymaking body for the pandemic response in the region.
The resolution is signed by DOH Eastern Visayas Regional Director Exuperia Sabalberino, Office of Civil Defense Regional Director Lord Byron Torrecarion, and Department of the Interior and Local Government Regional Director Karl Caesar Rimando.
“It is hereby resolved to approve the request of the Province of Leyte for a moratorium on the entry of LSI to the province from December 15 to December 31, 2020,” it added.
However, movements of returning or repatriated overseas Filipino workers who are transported through the efforts of the national government will be permitted in compliance with the interzonal and intrazonal movement guidelines released by the IATF Resolution No. 79 and the Omnibus guidelines.
During the provincial IATF meeting last November, local officials asked the RIATF and the RTF for a one-month suspension in accepting LSIs in the province.
The request will allow a break for the cleaning and sanitation of quarantine and isolation facilities and also allow personnel who have been manning the facilities for several months their much-needed rest. (PNA)
