Davao City – Government authorities in Davao Region highlighted the “Tuloy ang Paskong Pinoy” campaign in the One Davao Virtual Presser held Thursday.
The “Tuloy ang Paskong Pinoy” Campaign is the government’s communication campaign led by the Department of Health together with partner agencies to promote a safe and healthy celebration of the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Department of Health XI regional director Dr. Annabelle Yumang said, “ ang atong pagselebrar sa Pasko lahi na kini kumpara sa niaging mga tuig tungod sa dakung hagit sa COVID19. Mamahimo gihapon nato iselebrar ang yuletide season kung nag-obserba kita sa atong new normal ug musubay kita sa minimum health standards. Ang atong kampanya karon ‘Basta mag-amping, padayon ang Paskong Pinoy’
The official explained despite the limitation on social gathering as outlined in IATF for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases Resolution Nos. 80, 81, and 87, s. 2020, and the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine in the Philippines, citizens may still enjoy the holidays if health and safety are prioritized and minimum public health standards are met.
One of the ways suggested by the DOH is the “Iwas Paputok” or the call to use alternative noise-makers in lieu of fireworks/firecrackers.
Yumang enumerated alternative noise-makers which include the use of tambourine, playing of loud music through the computer or sound system, using glow sticks, and blowing of vehicle horns.
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) XI Alex Roldan said the office is set to issue a memorandum order reminding local government units on these health and safety protocols for the holiday season.
Roldan said that the LGUs are called to promote healthy and safe celebrations within communities.
Filipinos are urged to refrain from participating in large social gathering situations.
The people are advised to keep activities as short as possible because the longer the duration of the activity, the greater the risk.
Activities lasting more than 15 minutes are considered to be of higher risk. Talking, shouting, heavy breathing, singing are activities that are likely to increase the risk of COVID19 transmission because of the possible spread of respiratory droplets.
Regular cleaning and disinfecting is also advised along with proper disposal of waste especially used tissue and face masks.
The officials also tell those who are sick to just stay at home and isolate. If the person is still waiting for COVID19 results, he must stay in a separate room and avoid exposure to other people.
The DOH XI reminded those who are planning to give gifts to avoid giving gifts that are of low quality, or have suspicious origins that may cause injury or illness. This is to reduce the transmission of the COVID19 virus. (Frances Mae Macapagat, PIA XI)
