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PNR defers operation resumption to April 12 pending release of COVID-19 test results


The Philippine National Railways (PNR) deferred the resumption of its train service from Friday- April 9 to Monday-April 12 pending the release of COVID-19 test results of some of its personnel.

“The deferment of resumption of PNR train operations from April 9 to April 12 was decided upon by the PNR Management Committee as some RT-PCR results are still pending release, which requires tested personnel to stay at home while waiting for results,” the PNR management said in a statement.

The completion of mass testing of all its personnel and re-integration procedures were scheduled for the weekend.

A series of COVID-19 tests using a targeted approach was conducted from March 29 to April 8, 2021.

Personnel who tested positive for COVID-19 were isolated, while those with direct contact were subjected to strict quarantine procedures, the PNR management said.

Of the PNR’s 1,729 personnel, 1,037 have been tested with 154 testing positive.

“Meanwhile, only those who tested negative were allowed to render duty, but subject to a reintegration procedure through antigen testing to ensure the safety of all other PNR personnel, as well as PNR train passengers,” the railway line said.

The PNR management, likewise, decided to require antigen testing for personnel before integration back into service to ensure that there was no unnecessary exposure to COVID-19 during the time of the negative RT-PCR results up to the date when the employee was to render service.

“As passenger and personnel safety remains its utmost priority, PNR seeks the understanding and cooperation of its passengers as it continues to implement stringent health protocols prior to its resumption of operations on Monday,” the rail service said. — DVM, GMA News

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