By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Despite falling short of 5K target

The mass testing of residents in Bacolod City for the coronavirus disease 2019, or Covid-19, was still an overall success despite falling short of the targeted 5,000 individuals.

Based on data released by the City Health Office (CHO), a total of 4,384 individuals were tested from August 28 to 29, including the August 27 dry run.

Although the target fell short, during the two-day long “no movement policy” a majority of the city’s residents complied and stayed home, even though there was no lockdown.

Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia thanked the cooperation of the residents, those who have submitted themselves for testing, and the participation of various government agencies in implementing the mass testing in the city.

Leonardia also lifted his executive order on “no movement policy” which came into effect at 6:00 p.m. last Saturday.

The mayor also revealed that a meeting between medical societies, religious leaders, and representatives of the business sector in response to the medical doctors’ request for recess due to the increase of Covid-19 cases in the city will be made today.

The city will also reinstitute the use of home quarantine passes starting September 3 to15, which will be distributed to each household in Bacolod City as well as maintaining the current border and checkup points.

Leonardia also thanked President Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Bong Go who immediately responded to his appeal for help for the augmentation of medical personnel and supplies for Bacolod./DGB, WDJ