The Iloilo City Government is urging the public to strictly follow the minimum health protocols, especially the wearing of face masks, and to get vaccinated against coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
This is as cases in the metro, are currently on the uptick with a total of 535 cases from July 1 to 11 based on data from the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of the City Health Office.
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said the local government cannot afford to issue a lockdown order if cases continue to surge as the local economy will be greatly affected.
“We just have to live with the virus, and as we are still in the pandemic stage, I ask everyone to continue wearing masks, avoid eating together in enclosed spaces with no proper ventilation, and get vaccinated or have a booster shot,” he added.
Treñas has ordered stricter enforcement of the ordinance on the wearing of face masks in establishments, malls, barangays, schools, and public transport among others.
Public and private gatherings and activities are allowed, but eating together on such occasions is highly discouraged, and should be avoided as much as possible while cases are still high.
The city recorded a total of 85 cases on July 11, the highest since June this year. The daily average has been recorded at 45 in the first 10 days of this month.
There were 80 deaths from January to July 9. Seven of the deaths were directly caused by COVID-19, with six of them unvaccinated.
As of July 10, Iloilo City has a vaccination record of 130% with at least one dose, 127% fully vaccinated, and 39% first booster. (Iloilo City PIO)
