73 from relief queue in QC test positive for COVID-19

A total of 73 individuals have tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) following the food distribution program of Quezon City Councilor Franz Pumaren in barangay Old Balara last week.

According to Saleema Refran’s report on “24 Oras,” a portion of Feria Compound, where 14 positive individuals are located, has been placed under lockdown.

“Maaga na natin makita sila as much as possible, the best. Moving forward ay matulungan natin ‘yung mga nag po-positive at matigil natin ‘yung transmission,” Dr. Rolly Cruz, Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit head, said.

(The earlier we find them, the better. Moving forward, let’s help those who are testing positive and stop the transmission of the illness.)

A total of 792 individuals have been swabbed, far from the 6,000 individuals Pumaren said took part in the food distribution program.

Fourteen, however, are still awaiting their test results.

Meanwhile, individuals may reach out to the barangay for free swab testing.

“’Yung natitirang hindi pa nagpa-swab, baka sila ay na-infect at hindi nila alam na carrier pala sila,”  Barangay Old Balara captain Allan Franza said.

(Those who have not yet been swabbed could be infected, and they might not know that they are carriers of the virus.)

Meanwhile, Pumaren’s response to the show-cause order of Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has been passed to the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

“It is a super spreader event, the way I see it, even without the positive cases. Because he’s an elected official, ang kailangan talaga mag-imbistiga sa kaniya ay ang national government,” Belmonte said.

(It is a super spreader event, the way I see it, even without the positive cases. Because he’s an elected official, the national government should investigate him.)

However, Pumaren said he believes the government will find no violation of health protocols in the distribution as per the verdict of the Quezon City Police District.

In the new guidelines of the city, organizers must not only coordinate with the local government but also list down the names, addresses, and contact numbers of individuals who will receive aid.

The local government also reminded that though the drinking ban has been lifted, drinking liquor is still prohibited in public areas.

It also urged individuals living in different households to refrain from gathering.

This was because the transmission of COVID-19 in eight areas in QC that have been placed under lockdown started with drinking sessions.  

Meanwhile, individuals who want to file a complaint on super spreader events may call the QC hotline 122. —Joahna Lei Casilao/NB, GMA News