MARKETGOERS in Apalit now have a more limited time to buy their essentials as the local government ordered the temporary shortened hours of the public market.

The decision was made to give way to the daily disinfection and contact tracing activity that is being conducted after three vendors -- a couple and their child -- tested positive for the virus that causes the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

Mayor Oscar Tetangco Jr. said the public market is only open until 11 a.m. starting Monday, January 4, until the 14th of the month.

"The shortened hours is effective for 10 days to ensure that we can account as many of the patients' direct contacts as possible, as well as thoroughly disinfect the market," he said.

The mayor said the patients were able to sell coconuts on December 31 despite experiencing the symptoms the day before.

He told residents who purchased coconuts on the said day to observe themselves, go on self-quarantine and immediately consult a doctor and coordinate with the local government if they manifest any symptoms.

Aside from shortened hours, Tetangco also ordered the closure of temporary closure of about 14 stalls that surround the patients' store.

"It will be closed until we are sure that the virus is contained and the area is thoroughly disinfected. But the other wing which is not affected remains business as usual but with limited hours," he said.

Wearing of face masks and face shields, and social distancing are also strictly being enforced by the local police and marshals stationed at the entrance and around the public market.