Guimaras-bound passengers at the Parola Ferry Terminal in Iloilo City defy social distancing. (Photo courtesy of Biyahe Ni Den)

The Department of Health (DOH-6) has appealed to the public to strictly observe social distancing and other precautionary health measures to prevent a second wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections in Western Visayas.

“Let us not be complacent because may ara pa daan nga pwede magkasecond wave kita,” Dr. Ma. Julia Z. Villanueva, Department of Health (DOH-6) assistant regional, said in a virtual press conference of Monday, May 18.

Social distancing is “really important” in the fight against the unseen enemy, she stressed.

“That’s why until now gina-avoid ang [mass gatherings],” Villanueva said. 

The health official also reminded everyone to wear face masks at all times and practice proper hand washing and cough etiquette.

“Ang ginahambal ni naton tanan nakadepende sa aton. Comply gid kita sa rules and regulations kay basi magsuffer kita liwat,” Villanueva said.

“Mabudlay na nga magbalik kita sa ECQ (enhanced community quarantine) kag mabudlay nga madamo sang aton kauturan ang maospital ukon mapatay,” she added.

The DOH-6 reported no new COVID-19 cases in Western Visayas on Monday.

The number of confirmed cases of the deadly disease remained at 104, including 64 recoveries and 10 deaths.

All provinces and cities in the region are under the general community quarantine (GCQ), which has more relaxed restrictions.IMT