Catanduanes imposes lockdown amid COVID-19 scare

Catanduanes has imposed a lockdown from March 15 to April 14 to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Entry for tourists and non-residents is prohibited, with exceptions for essential personnel like employees, those transporting lab specimens, and individuals on official travel with a clean bill of health.

Returning residents showing no symptoms are allowed entry but must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine.

Mass gatherings, including seminars, fiestas, and parties, are prohibited.

Students are advised to stay home, particularly if they have finished their final exams.

The trade of goods and services remains unrestricted to ensure communities can function sustainably.

Local government units are directed to enforce prohibitions on gatherings and ensure social distancing.

The Department of Education will consult the Department of Health regarding upcoming graduation rites.

Environmental cleaning and disinfection have begun across the province, and while San Andres and Virac ports remain operational, Virac Airport has canceled all flights.