Barangay execs required to undergo PCR test if they tested positive for COVID-19 rapid testing — DILG’s Diño

Interior Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs Martin Diño on Friday said barangay officials are required to undergo a PCR test if they tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) rapid test.

At the Laging Handa press briefing, Diño said barangay officials should not refuse to be subjected to a PCR test because they have the mandate to protect their constituents by ensuring that they are free from any illness.

"Kapag ikaw ay government official, obligado ka. Wala kang karapatang tumanggi dahil unang-una, ang dapat pangalagaan ng pamahalaan ay mga frontliner. Mga frontliner kami sa barangay, kami ang humaharap sa tao kaya nga sabi ko nga sa inyo, kami ang pinaka-delikado," Diño said.

"Pag ikaw ay nagundergo sa swab testing, hindi lang sarili mo ang nililigtas kung hindi ang iyong pamilya at mga constituents," he added.

PCR-based test kits are considered by the Department of Health as the "gold standard" in testing since these can detect SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

The rapid test kits, on the other hand, measure antibodies and not the viral load itself.

Barangay officials are among the frontliners who are catering to the needs of the general public amid the community quarantine being implemented due to COVID-19 pandemic. — RSJ, GMA News