Physicians are doctors, DOH exec tells confused checkpoint personnel

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire reminded the quarantine enforcers who are manning the checkpoints that "physicians" mean doctors amid misunderstandings at some borders whenever these medical workers pass through.

"Gusto ko lang po linawin na marami pong nagsasangguni sa amin at sana po ay linawin natin na ang mga physician po ay mga doktor po. Ito po ay pareho lang na term," Vergeire said in a press briefing on Wednesday.

"So 'yun pong mga naguguluhan lalong-lalo na po sa mga border na kailangang dumaan ng ating mga physician, ayaw daw po silang padaanin dahil hindi nga po naiintindihan na ang physicians po ay doktor din po," she added.

The entire Luzon has been placed under an enhanced community quarantine since March 17 to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It will be in effect until April 30.

Several establishments and mass transportation had been temporarily closed, and travel remains limited to workers of essential services, key government officials, and persons needing medical attention.

The government has also introduced the RapidPass System—a virtual identification system with QR codes that will limit contact between exempted individuals and personnel manning the checkpoints.—AOL, GMA News