Partido Reporma chairman and standard-bearer Panfilo “Ping” Lacson urged the national government to engage private sector organizations and local government units in the possible rollout of a free and wider COVID-19 testing program, considering the spate of new viral infections in the country.
Lacson issued this statement amid concerns from the general public over the price of getting an RT-PCR test and the increased demand for some reputable do-it-yourself rapid antigen testing kits.
“The price range for testing is quite expensive. The swab test costs around P3,700 when conducted in a private setting. If you fall in line, of course, you get a much cheaper rate. But we know not all of our countrymen have extra money to pay for it,” he said.
“My suggestion is let’s involve our local government units again and even the private sector. Because the private sector is willing to help in this program. I’m just not sure about the reason why sometimes, instead of encouraging it, we are making it hard for them,” the presidential aspirant added.
Lacson has been pushing for a free COVID-19 testing program, especially while the nation is still grappling with the ongoing pandemic and its recurring and emerging variants, saying this should be part of the public services offered by the government.
“The testing should really be made free, of course, especially to ordinary employees. If some people have the wherewithal to pay for it, by all means, let them pay. But to those who we know would rather spend money on other things, the daily wage earners, let’s offer it for free,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lacson, a former chief of the Philippine National Police, advised civilians to always know their rights now that the government has begun implementing checkpoints nationwide due to heightened restrictions amid the lingering pandemic and the start of the election period.
Lacson issued some easy-to-remember guidelines for everyone to consider when passing by these checkpoints and how to deal with law enforcement authorities tasked to implement additional security protocols.
“Checkpoints must be well-lighted, properly identified, and manned by uniformed personnel wearing masks and other protective gears. Upon approach, slowdown, dim the headlights of your car and turn on interior lights. Wear your mask properly. Never step out of the vehicle,” Lacson said.
Lacson said security officers would normally ask standard questions to citizens under these circumstances. He advised the general public to always be “honest, courteous and firm” when giving their answers.
Routine questions that may be asked include points of departure and destination, address, and whether they have been vaccinated against COVID-19.
It is, therefore, important for citizens to bring their vaccination card at all times and present it to the law enforcement officer, if
necessary,” Lacson said.