DIGITAL TRACING. Sangguniang Kabataan officials of Sogod, Southern lead the issuance of QR codes for its automated contact tracing system (ACTS) in this August 3, 2020 photo. The local government on Friday (Aug.7, 2020) said at least 218 establishments operating within its jurisdiction have already registered in ACTS designed to fast-track the contact tracing of individuals who might have contact with coronavirus disease 2019 suspects or carriers. (Photo courtesy of Alex Bacalla)
TACLOBAN CITY – At least 218 establishments operating in Sogod, Southern Leyte have already registered in its automated contact tracing system (ACTS) for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
Mayor Imelda Tan in a statement on Friday said these include community stores, shops, hotels, pawnshops, salons, warehouses, pharmacies, internet cafes, eateries, hardware, banks, restaurants, and other public and private establishments.
“Our registration is ongoing, and we are giving those who have not complied yet with the executive order until August 10 to personally register at the business permits and licensing office,” she added.
The local government said establishments that fail to register will face non-renewal of their business permits upon the recommendation of the treasurer’s office to the mayor.
The digital solution designed to fast-track the contact tracing process through automation was proposed by the College of Computer Studies and Information Technology of Southern Leyte State University.
Through ACTS, persons entering any establishment in Sogod town are required to have their issued QR codes scanned to immediately identify individuals who might have contact with Covid-19 suspects or carriers.
“Contact tracing is a crucial control measure in fighting against infectious diseases such as coronavirus. Presently, major establishments here were requiring individuals to log their names, addresses, and contact numbers before entering the building, establishment, or store, but the said procedure is tedious, time-consuming, and poses a greater risk to virus exposure,” Tan said.
All persons residing within or outside Sogod may register at https://ccsiteedu.ph/contact/tracing/signup for the activation of the QR code.
They can also secure the QR code through the kiosk at the local police station which is open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The local government said they will form an inspection team to ensure the strict implementation of ACTS starting August 10. (PNA)
