The implementation of an executive order directing the free RT-PCR (real time-polymerase chain reaction) testing for those most exposed daily begins today.
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso said Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau chief Dennis Viaje reported to him his office aimed to test at least 300 public utility drivers a day, considering the huge volume of drivers in the city totalling at least 24,000.
These are drivers of pedicabs, tricycyles, jeepneys and e-trikes.
Domagoso added that based on plans, Viaje’s team would personally go to the designated terminals or queueing areas of the said PUVs to cover everyone.
In Domagoso’s EO 39, also covered by the free swab testing are employees of malls, hotels, restaurants and supermarkets and vendors in public markets.
In his EO, the mayor said the Manila Health Department had been tasked to provide the free RT-PCR testing in coordination with Business Promotion and Development Office chief Levi Facundo, Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila (DTCAM) head Charlie Dungo and Viaje for the formulation of the mechanics to effectively and efficiently carry out the said testing.
In the case of Facundo and Dungo, they are further directed to require establishments under their jurisdiction to require the filling up of mandatory health declaration form for purposes of contact tracing.
The order came after Domagoso and Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna inaugurated last week the second RT-PCR molecular laboratory at the Sta. Ana Hospital headed by Dr. Grace Padilla, where about 1,000 individuals may already be tested on a daily basis.
This is a total upgrade from the city’s first laboratory, also located at the same hospital, which had an output of 250 to 300 tests per day.
In his EO, Domagoso said to allay the fear of getting infected with COVID-19, there was a need to assure the public that employees of these frequently visited establishments are COVID-19 — free and thus spur economic activities.
“To attain this objective without necessarily adding burden to the already struggling business sector, the city finds it imperative to provide the employees of these establishments with free RT-PCR testing as the city’s proactive initiative in balancing health and economy for the general welfare of Manileños,” the EO cited.