Some violators of the health protocols in Navotas have tested positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019.
The record of apprehensions from March 16 to 19, 2021, showed that out of 209 who had undergone a swab test, 47 were confirmed to be positive.
Navotas passed City Ordinance 2021-17 imposing a mandatory RT-PCR swab test as a penalty for violation of safety protocols including the curfew, the wearing of face masks, and social distancing.
“This only shows that those who breached our safety protocols are very prone to COVID-19 infection and could become spreaders of the virus,” Mayor Toby Tiangco said.
“We want the public to remain safe from this deadly disease, but our local government can only do so much. We need them to take responsibility for their health and follow the minimum safety standards.”
Tiangco expressed apprehension that the steady increase in the cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 might lead to the shutdown of government services.
Five of 18 barangay halls had been locked down after some of their employees tested positive for COVID-19.
The barangay halls of San Jose, Bangkulasi, San Rafael Village, North Bay Boulevard North and North Bay Boulevard South-Proper had been closed temporarily for disinfection and to prevent further transmission of the virus.
Tiangco reiterated his call to Navoteños to continue practicing the proper wearing of face masks and face shields, 1-2-meter social distancing, the washing of hands and staying home as much as possible.
“If we are concerned about our livelihood and putting food on our family’s table, then let us follow the safety protocols. Let us make sure that our health is protected. We cannot go to work if we contract COVID-19,” he said.
“COVID-19 does not only endanger our health but also our capability to provide for our family. That is why we need to do our part to remain safe from the disease and keep our loved ones safe, too.”
As of March 24, Navotas logged 7,585 cases with 6,321 recovered, 1,037 active and 227 deaths.