FOLLOWING the Department of Health’s declaration of “code red” alert due to the coronavirus disease (Covid-19), Governor Dennis Pineda is mulling the suspension of big public events in the province.
During an interview at an event in the City of San Fernando, Governor Pineda said the Provincial Government is taking all possible precautionary measures to prevent the entry and spread of the disease in the province.
“I am still studying the declaration of the national government but probably holding of big events in the province will be suspended for the meantime just to be safe,” he said.
For events that cannot be suspended, Governor Pineda said the Provincial Government will provide health assistance such as medical teams to check the body temperature of participants, as well as alcohol and sanitizers.
“But if it’s up to me, big public gatherings shall be avoided while there is still Covid-19 for the safety of the public,” he said.
Asked if he has plans to suspend classes, Governor Pineda said: “Probably not anymore, unless declared by the national government, since the school year is almost over.”
He said the schooling of the students might be affected if he abruptly suspends classes.
Instead of class suspension, Governor Pineda said he will ask the Department of Education (DepEd) to avoid holding big events as a precautionary measure.
“I will talk to DepEd on what the remaining activities are for children and see what can be avoided from the list. It’s only a few more weeks, let us let them finish the school year,” he said.
Meanwhile, Governor Pineda called on Kapampangans who have travel history in places with confirmed cases, or are manifesting symptoms of Covid-19 to coordinate with the provincial government for testing.
“Do not be afraid because the provincial government will take care of you. Let us help each other in preventing the spread of the virus,” he said.