LSIs arrive in South Cotabato under Hatid Tulong Program

A total of 184 locally stranded individuals (LSIs) arrived in South Cotabato on Tuesday under the government’s Hatid Tulong Program.

The LSIs, who traveled almost three days from Metro Manila onboard three buses, included 62 from South Cotabato, 22 from General Santos City, and 34 from Sarangani Province.

Upon arrival, they were immediately placed under quarantine and underwent COVID-19 testing in accordance with health protocols.

Preparations are underway for the arrival of at least 554 LSIs late Monday or early Tuesday, bringing the total number of returning individuals to around 738.

Health officials have adopted stringent control measures to ensure proper handling of the returning LSIs amid ongoing COVID-19 concerns.