Village execs’ discriminatory acts against Covid-19 patient

CITY HALL BEAT

Aileen P. Refuerzo

BAGUIO CITY -- Mayor Benjamin Magalong decried acts of discrimination allegedly committed by officials and residents of barangay Sto. Niño Slaughterhouse against a Covid- 19 patient.

"Why do they have to be extremely unkind and cold-hearted at this time when people need to look out for one another," the mayor lamented after receiving reports that the patient's family had been ostracized.

               He said photos were even posted on social media showing the patient's home being cordoned off.

He said these cruel acts will not be tolerated as he intends to file both criminal and administrative cases against all those responsible.

"I am having this investigated upon so that all those responsible for these discriminatory acts will be dealt with accordingly in accordance with local and national laws," he said.

City Ordinance No. 44, series of 2020 penalizes "acts of discrimination committed against persons affected by Covid-19 medical personnel, other health workers, and essential workers in making the City of Baguio Covid-19 free."  These acts are also punishable under Republic Act 11332 or An Act Providing Policies and Prescribing Procedure on Surveillance and Response to Notifiable Diseases, Epidemics and Health Events.

"It's ironic that we pride ourselves of being called disciplined and cooperative when we cannot bestow compassion and respect to a person in need," he said.

The mayor however said this is an isolated case in the city acknowledging the kindness and helpfulness of most people in other barangays.

"Neighbors show sympathy by sending food and supplies to the residents of patients. I hope we continue to nurture this kind of attitude toward our fellow," he said.

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Mayor Magalong has requested the Dept. of Trade and Industry Baguio-Benguet to closely monitor movements in prices of face shields in the city.

This after the mayor received reports that face shield costs had skyrocketed following his order on the mandatory wearing of the facial protective gear among workers in the city.

The mayor on August 5 issued Executive Order No. 118 requiring employees in business establishments, banks and government offices to don face shields as an added protection against Covid-19. 

The Dept. of Transportation has issued Memorandum Circular No. 2020-14 dated August 3 directing the mandatory wearing of face shields for passengers using public transportation in areas where it is allowed.