Cebu gov allocates P25.5M disaster fund for novel coronavirus prevention

The provincial government of Cebu has allocated PHP25.5 million from its disaster fund to assist local government units (LGUs) in preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

Each LGU will receive PHP500,000 for the purchase of protective equipment like alcohol, face masks, and disinfectants.

Governor Gwendolyn Garcia stated that LGUs must declare a "state of preparedness" to avail of the financial assistance.

The governor emphasized that decisions on canceling public events, such as fiestas, are at the discretion of the mayors, who are accountable to their constituents.

Some LGUs, like Consolacion, have already canceled events, including its Sarok Festival, as a precautionary measure.

Department of Health-Central Visayas regional director Jaime Bernadas advised the public to stay home if possible.