THE Provincial Government has set stricter measures to prevent the further spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in Pampanga.

Governor Dennis Pineda said the provisions stipulated under Executive Order 19-2020 aims to regulate the movement of persons to, from, and within the province, in order to address rising cases of Covid-19.

"The alarming surge in Covid-19 cases in the country in general and the province of Pampanga in particular, especially after the latter being placed under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), the transmissions being mainly attributable to those coming from places outside of the province requires more stringent measures, particularly on border management and control, to protect public health in the province," Pineda said.

As part of the stricter quarantine protocols, the Pampanga Police Provincial Office will strictly maintain checkpoints on major entry points to the province for the duration of the MGCQ.

"Travel in and out of the province will be generally restricted except for health and emergency frontline service personnel; government officials and frontline personnel; duly authorized humanitarian assistance actors; those traveling for medical or humanitarian reasons; persons transiting to the Clark International Airport for travel abroad; persons who work, conduct business or are engaged in permitted establishments or activities in the province, and locally stranded individuals transported by the government, upon the presentation of ID and other necessary documents," the governor said.

On top of the checkpoints set up by the police, barangay officials shall also implement barangay checkpoints to regulate movement of people from their areas.

"To facilitate strict monitoring and contact tracing, barangay officials are also mandated to prepare and maintain a masterlist of their constituents who work, do business, or engage in a permitted activity outside Pampanga, and who regularly return to the province on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. These persons must comply with strict health protocols such as social distancing, and wearing of face masks and other protective gear when in public," Pineda said.

Meanwhile, accomplishment of health declaration forms by employees and guests is required in all business establishments and offices for easy contact tracing.

The Provincial Government also reminded the public that public gathering and all forms of illegal gambling are strictly prohibited.

All persons entering the province must submit themselves to mandatory temperature screening, while non-residents who are allowed entry to the province shall strictly limit their movement to the permitted work or activity.

Pineda appealed to Kapampangans, especially the vulnerable sectors, to strictly follow the quarantine protocols and observe minimum public health standards. (PIA)