112 individuals in 1st batch of Balik Probinsya program arrive in Leyte

TACLOBAN CITY - The first batch of participants in the government's Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa Program consisting of 112 individuals reached Leyte on Thursday night, according to a report on GMA News' 24 Oras News Alert on Saturday.

The participants who came from Metro Manila arrived past 9 p.m. aboard five buses after 28 hours of travel.

They were met by Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla upon their arrival at the Government Center in Palo, Leyte.

All the participants had to undergo disinfection and swab testing for COVID-19. The tests were conducted as soon as they disembarked from the buses.

The provincial government has already laid out programs to help them, such as livelihood and skills trainings.

The participants will settle in the towns of Kanangga, Matag-ob, Alangalang, Tanauan, Hilongos, Bato, Burauen, Dagami, Julita, Tabobtabon, Palo, Tolosa, Isabel, Palompon, Tabango, Villaba, Abuyog, Javier, MacArthur, Calubia, San Isidro, Albuera, Merida, Tunga, Dulag, Mayorga, Carigara, Jaro, Babatngon, Barugo, Capoocan, Matalom, at sa lungsod sa Baybay.

Upon their arrival in the specific town, the participants will undergo 14 days of quarantine in isolation facilities while awaiting the results of their COVID-19 tests. They will be monitored by barangay health officials.

Those who will test positive for COVID-19 will be brought to a referral hospital, while those who test negative will be allowed to join the community after their quarantine period. 

President Rodrigo Duterte signed early this month an executive order creating the Balik Probinsiya, Bagong Pag-asa Council, which will direct the implementation of the government initiative meant to decongest Metro Manila and promote countryside development. —With a report from Ronnie Roa/KG, GMA News