Social distancing measures slow down evacuation ops in Cavite

Social distancing measures have slowed down the evacuation operations in Cavite as tropical storm Ambo continues to wreak havoc in Luzon.

Aside from rescuing residents, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office has to contend with the risk of coronavirus transmission.

According Jun Veneracion's report for "24 Oras," only one family is allowed per rescue vehicle to ensure there is enough space to practice social distancing.

"Before pag nagkakaroon tayo ng operations like this, mabilis. Saksak lang tayo ng saksak sa truck," said CDRRMO chief Erwin Ordan. "Today, due to the threat of COVID, medyo mabigat, medyo matagal."

In Rosario, authorities have to monitor 10 barangays in coastal areas. Evacuations had to be done early to take into account the slower pace of the operation, according to MDRRMO chief Manuel Pueblo.

In the schools serving as evacuation centers, the capacity of each classroom has also been reduced to 10 to 15 people compared to the usual 25 before the pandemic.

However, authorities said practicing social distancing could be a challenge with the arrival of more evacuees as Cavite remains under Signal No. 2. —MGP, GMA News