HEALTH PROTOCOLS. Violators of Ordinance No. 10, or the mandatory wearing of face mask and shield in Northern Samar, undergo counseling led by local health workers. The provincial government on Monday (Nov. 16, 2020) said at least 214 violators were apprehended in a two-day operation last week. (Photo courtesy of Northern Samar provincial information office)
TACLOBAN CITY – At least 214 residents in Northern Samar were apprehended for violating the mandatory wearing of face mask and shield in a two-day operation last week, an official said Monday.
The Task Force Disiplina, led by Philippine National Police, apprehended 109 violators in Catarman, the provincial capital, and the rest from the towns of Bobon, Rosario, San Jose, Lavezares, Biri, Gamay, Palapag, Lapinig, and Las Navas from Nov. 12 to 13.
"They were brought to their respective police stations and underwent counseling from the local health office on the importance of wearing face protection to contain the spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19)," provincial information officer John Allen Berbon said in a phone interview.
Berbon said violators were subsequently subjected to appropriate police processing and disposition, and free face shields and masks were provided to those who cannot afford them.
Under Ordinance No. 10, first-time offenders may face a PHP1,000 fine or 24-hour of community service; PHP2,000 or 48-hour community service for the second offense; and PHP5,000 or one-month imprisonment or both for the third offense.
"Governor Edwin Ongchuan has asked the police not to spare even the big fishes, particularly government employees," Berbon said.
On Nov. 1, the provincial government enforced the mandatory wearing of face masks and shields in all public places and private establishments to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.
These include transport terminals and loading areas for pedicabs and motorcycles for hire; restaurants, cafeterias and takeout establishments; government buildings; hospitals and pharmacies; churches; public markets, supermarkets and grocery stores; and other similar places or establishments.
As of Nov. 14, the province confirmed a total of 982 coronavirus cases, including 539 recoveries and 11 deaths, based on the monitoring report of the provincial health office. (PNA)
