KORONADAL CITY — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has imposed Friday strict measures among its employees across the region in a bid to contain the spread of the deadly new coronavirus.

Cezario Joel Espejo, DSWD-12 regional director, made the announcement following a directive on Thursday from Secretary Rolando Joselito Bautista, who banned personal and official foreign travels among field workers until further notice.

“One who feels sick with COVID-19 like symptoms or has been exposed to persons infected with Covid-19 must immediately inform his/her superior, voluntarily seek immediate medical attention or go on self-quarantine,” said Dir. Espejo, citing a part of directive from the  Secretary. 

“It is important that we have to take necessary steps to prevent further transmission and reduce the impact of the outbreak,” he added.

At the same time, the agency will monitor the temperature of employees and its clients using digital infrared thermometer upon their entry at the office compound.

The developments from the agency came as the country recorded three more death from the virus, bringing to five the total fatalities  while the number of confirmed cases has shot to 52. 

”We are coordinating with our partner agencies, including the health department, to help together in our drive to prevent the virus from spreading in our respective areas,” Dir. Espejo said. (JBM / DSWD)