ILOILO City Mayor Jerry Treñas has urged residents to undergo real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test if they feel sick or have influenza-like symptoms.

“Our (Covid-19) cases are rising. We have to test more, and vaccinate more in order to lower down cases and curb transmission,” he said.

The city is offering swab test for free at Jubilee Hall for symptomatic patients with doctor’s referral, close contacts, returning overseas Filipinos, and returning residents.

Those who will undergo swab test for travel or employment purpose will be charged with the current rate of P2,500 pending the amendment in the ordinance.

Treñas will also request the City Council to lower the rate of RT-PCR tests to P1,800 in response to the request of the business sector, since as they reopen their businesses, they need to continuously test their employees, he said. (PR)