THE local government of Arayat is determined on implementing a ban on visitors, workers and residents from Quezon City who are planning to travel to the town once the cases of the new variant of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) hits the 12 cases mark.
Early this month, the Department of Health detected the first case of the new Covid-19 variant in the country in a 29-year-old male resident of Quezon City.
Mayor Emmanuel Alejandrino said the move, although not yet implemented as of January 19, is a precautionary measure against the possible spread of the highly contagious new Covid-19 strain.
He did not elaborate on why the number of the new variant cases has been set on the 12-case mark.
"This new variant is said to be more infectious, that is why we do not want to take chances. As early as possible, we want to safeguard our people and the community," he said.
If implemented, Alejandrino said the measure will not be a "total ban" as people who are conducting official business in the town will be allowed entry provided they present medical certificates or clearances from their point of origin.
Passing-through of motorists along Arayat roads going to Nueva Ecija and other parts of Central Luzon is allowed as long as they do not stop by the municipality.
'Not Discriminatory'
Alejandrino, meanwhile, said the move is not aimed at discriminating Quezon City residents and workers, but is a mere safety measure for ArayateƱos.
He asked for the understanding of the local government and the people of Quezon City who will be affected by the order if implemented.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte had earlier denounced the move of the mayor, saying it is "discriminatory" and may cause undue panic.
"This is not a special case for Arayat because we usually implement travel bans. It just so happened that the ban is isolated to people from Quezon City only because it is where the first case of the new Covid-19 variant was reported by authorities," Alejandrino said.
He said that as mayor of Arayat, his primary responsibility is to safeguard his people and the community from threats of any disease.