Village officials told to strictly enforce health safety protocols

File Photo
File Photo

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reminded all barangay officials to strictly enforce the minimum health protocols in their communities as a preventive measure against the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

DILG Secretary Eduardo Año said barangay officials should live by example particularly in observing the minimum health protocols in their areas of jurisdiction such as the observance of social distancing, wearing of face masks and the maintenance of clean surroundings.

“Sa lebel ng komunidad talaga ang tunay na laban sa Covid-19. National government can only do general supervision but the barangay governments are on the ground and closest to the people. Barangays, therefore, have the huge responsibility in implementing minimum health standards,” he said.

He said an advisory released through the office of Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs Martin Diño on June 17 also directed barangay officials to promote frequent handwashing and sanitation as well as discourage mass gatherings and eating together in common areas.

Año said as part of physical distancing protocols, barangay officials were also instructed to limit the number of participants during meetings and sessions. They were instead encouraged to use digital platforms.

“The DILG reminds barangay officials to walk the talk. Follow the rules first before you impose on others,” Año said.

The secretary said DILG regional offices were ordered to observe and report barangay officials who fail to comply with Covid-19 related policies of the department and other government agencies.

He said this includes the performance of the Barangay Health Emergency Response Team (BHERT) and Barangay Public Safety Officers especially in the conduct of contact tracing.

Año also reiterated that barangay officials should never ask for any fees or charges for the issuance of barangay certifications for Covid-19 related purposes. Erring officials will be penalized.

Earlier, the DILG recommended to the Office of the Ombudsman the filing of administrative charges against 20 barangay officials for violating quarantine protocols such as the implementation of social distancing in engagement with the citizens of barangays, illegal cockfighting, gambling, poor enforcement of lockdown protocols as children were seen playing in the streets, negligence and gross neglect of duty, among others. (SunStar Philippines)

Trending

No stories found.

Just in

No stories found.

Branded Content

No stories found.
SunStar Publishing Inc.
www.sunstar.com.ph