Clark Freeport—Stranded overseas Filipino workers have been accommodated in different hotels and villas here as part of the government emergency program to ensure the welfare and security of our modern day heroes amid threat from coronavirus disease 19 (COVID 19), key official said in a statement.
More than 200 passengers, most of them recently arrived OFWs, have been stranded for days at Clark International Airport due to the community quarantines imposed in their respective provincial destinations.
“To ensure the welfare and safety of these passengers amid the COVID-19 threat, BCDA, CDC, CIAC and LIPAD have coordinated efforts to provide them with the necessary assistance, as the entirety of Luzon observes the Enhanced Community Quarantine.” The Clark Development Corporation stated.
CDC said Clark is a safe haven for returning OFWs. Starting Thursday, March 19, these passengers will be provided with free food and lodging. They will be housed in various locations in this freeport.
“Stranded OFWs will be taken good care during their stay in Clark, until the imposed lockdowns in their destinations are lifted.” CDC stated further.
The Clark International Airport will remain operational should there be inbound and outbound international flights. Only OFWs, balikbayans, and foreign nationals will be allowed to leave, while inbound international passengers will be subjected to strict quarantine protocols.
Meanwhile in Angeles City, local government chief executive here placed the city under state of calamity to ensure readiness in the event of COVID 19 spread.
“Sa ngayon po, wala pong dapat ikabahala, huwag po tayong mag-panic. Wala pong coronavirus dito sa Angeles. But the safety of our constituents is our topmost priority. We will closely monitor to assure that the City is guarded against the virus,” Lazatin said.
“Ang pagdedeklara po nating ito ay makakatulong sa ating mga preparasyon na gagawin sa pagtiyak ng proteksyon ng bawat isa nating kababayan. Sa pamamagitan po nito, malalabanan natin ang COVID 19,” Lazatin said.
According to Mayor Lazatin, the imposition and enforcement of price ceiling will be strictly implemented in the City. The said resolution also states that “the Angeles City Price Council shall ensure that all retail establishments within the City are complying with the price ceiling issued by the National Price Coordinating Council.”
Lazatin already ordered business establishments here to refrain from overpricing and hoarding of products. He warned groceries and stores of legal actions for those who will violate the directive.